French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo. It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

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, divided
• 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 and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let 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. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or whole milk, but keep in mind it may be less creamy.
• Rotisserie chicken saves time, but leftover roasted chicken works well too.
• Add a splash of white wine when caramelizing onions for extra flavor.
• Use gluten-free orzo or small pasta shapes to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain 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 the casserole up to the point before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Can I substitute a different cheese?

Absolutely. Swiss, Gruyère, or fontina cheeses can be used in place of mozzarella for a different but complementary flavor.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 133 reviews

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavor of French onions with tender shredded chicken and creamy orzo pasta. Baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this comforting casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal that brings together savory and indulgent flavors.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop and Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Main Ingredients

• 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)

Cheeses

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized. During the last 1–2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic to infuse its aroma.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir the orzo into the caramelized onions and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to lightly toast and absorb flavors. Then add shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Pour in Liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquids are mostly absorbed.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and all of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt into the creamy orzo and chicken mixture, creating a luscious texture.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the cheese topping becomes bubbly and golden brown, adding a delightful crust to the dish.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Optionally garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving to enhance the presentation and add freshness.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time, but leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half and half.
• Optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze adds depth and a subtle tangy sweetness.
• Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven for stovetop to oven cooking.
• Resting the casserole before serving helps it set and makes it easier to portion.

Keywords: French onion chicken casserole, orzo casserole, comfort food, baked pasta casserole, chicken and cheese casserole