French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

In my kitchen, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a beloved comfort dish, perfect for cozy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich, savory blend of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta creates a delightful experience that warms both the heart and the palate. Whether you’ve got leftovers from a rotisserie chicken or simply want something hearty and satisfying, this casserole never fails to impress. It’s a simple yet luscious dish that brings a taste of gourmet dining right to your home.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This casserole stands out for its ease and versatility. It’s budget-friendly, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners, and can even be prepped ahead to save time. Plus, kids absolutely love it! Each bite is packed with flavors, thanks to the caramelized onions and rich cheeses, while the tender orzo offers a fun texture.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6

How This Recipe Comes Together

Making this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a breeze! It’s all about layering flavors and textures. You’ll start by caramelizing the onions, then combine them with the orzo and chicken, add the creamy goodness, and finish by baking it to perfection. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!

What You’ll Need

• 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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
3. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

Add Orzo and Chicken

4. Stir in the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
5. Next, add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well to combine.

Pour in Liquids

6. Slowly add the chicken broth and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.

Add Cheese

8. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy your kitchen will smell fantastic!

Bake the Casserole

9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top of the casserole.
11. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

12. Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. You can garnish it with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This casserole is delectable on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. You can even serve it with a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra touch!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you’d like to freeze it, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Flavor Boost: For extra depth, consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
2. Richer Taste: Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth for a more robust flavor.
3. Cheesy Goodness: Swap in gruyère cheese for a nutty twist.
4. Meal Prep: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole! You could swap out the shredded chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms and adding some additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Gluten-free options are also available; just substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta.

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
per serving	550	30g	60g	25g	3g	5g