French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavor of classic French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

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

Tips & Variations

• Slowly caramelize onions over moderate heat to develop rich flavor without burning.
• For extra depth, use homemade chicken broth if available.
• Swap mozzarella for Gruyère cheese for a nuttier taste.
• Add mushrooms with the onions for a heartier casserole.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems dry.

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 through step 4, then cover and refrigerate before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or small rice-shaped gluten-free grains. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 50 reviews

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavor of onions with tender shredded chicken and creamy cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. It features orzo pasta simmered in chicken broth and cream, mingled with savory herbs, resulting in a comforting, hearty casserole perfect for a family dinner or cozy night in.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized. In the last 2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic and cook to blend the flavors.
2. Toast the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring often to allow the orzo to lightly toast and absorb the flavors from the onions and butter.
3. Add chicken and seasonings: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
4. Simmer the casserole: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add cheese and make creamy: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese along with all of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt completely and create a creamy sauce throughout the casserole.
6. Bake to finish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crisped.
7. Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving for an added touch of freshness and color.

Notes

• For best flavor, take your time caramelizing the onions; this builds the rich base flavor of the casserole.
• If you prefer a tangier note, substitute Worcestershire sauce with balsamic glaze.
• Use an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven to transition easily between stovetop and oven without transferring the food.
• You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken breast for convenience.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, as some cheeses and broths contain sodium.
• Garnish with fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to add color and a bright herbal note.

Keywords: French Onion Chicken, Orzo Casserole, Chicken Casserole, Caramelized Onion, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal