French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well to combine.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or whole milk.
• Add a splash of white wine when caramelizing onions for more depth.
• Try adding mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
• Use a sharp mozzarella or mix in Gruyère for a nuttier taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals stirring occasionally to retain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for orzo pasta?

Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, or finely chopped rice or quinoa work well as alternatives to orzo in this casserole.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 51 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and shredded chicken with creamy orzo pasta and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a comforting one-dish meal with a golden cheesy crust baked to perfection, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

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Ingredients

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For the Onion Base

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

Liquids and Cheese

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking to release its aroma.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir the orzo into the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and absorb flavors. Then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Pour in Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the orzo cooks until tender.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan until the cheeses melt smoothly, creating a creamy texture throughout the casserole filling.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, adding a delicious crust to the dish.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting step helps the casserole set for easier serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute half and half for the heavy cream to reduce calories slightly.
• Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Using rotisserie chicken speeds up preparation and adds extra flavor.
• For a deeper flavor, Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze are optional but recommended additions.
• Ensure the skillet or Dutch oven used is oven-safe to cook the dish completely.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Keywords: French onion chicken, orzo casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, chicken dinner, cheesy pasta bake, caramelized onion, easy family meal