Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
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)

Description

A creamy and cheesy casserole that combines caramelized onions, orzo pasta, and tender chicken for a comforting one-pan meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add 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.
Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, comfort food, French onion