why make this recipe
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. The caramelized onions bring a sweet and savory depth, and the melted cheese on top adds a delicious finishing touch. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to make, making it a great choice for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.
how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
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)
Directions:
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 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 the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. 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 of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of 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.
how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Serve the casserole warm straight from the oven. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. It’s great for leftovers too!
how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in the freezer.
tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Make sure the onions are caramelized well. It enhances the flavor of the dish.
- You can use different types of cheese to change the flavor; Gruyère, for example, would add a nice touch.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more herbs or spices if you prefer.
variation
You can make this recipe with different proteins, such as turkey or even keep it vegetarian by using mushrooms instead of chicken. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers would also be a nice touch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different small pasta shape if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use less cheese or substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt or more broth to lighten it up.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Print
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon 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
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
Instructions
- 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.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. 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.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Make sure the onions are well caramelized for enhanced flavor. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: French onion, casserole, chicken, orzo, comfort food