Description

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and creamy one-pan dish combining caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and cheesy orzo pasta. The rich flavors of caramelized onions blend beautifully with thyme and garlic, while the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses creates a golden, bubbly topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is quick to prepare with a balance of savory ingredients and a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Base 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

Main Components

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a 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

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt, then cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking to add fragrant flavor.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it, enhancing the nutty flavor. Then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything thoroughly to combine flavors evenly.
Pour in Liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquids.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt into the creamy casserole base, creating a luscious texture.
Bake the Casserole: 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 cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half and half.
Caramelizing onions thoroughly is key for deep flavor development.
Make sure the skillet or Dutch oven you use is oven-safe to allow for baking the casserole directly.
Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes stovetop + 15 minutes baking
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-American

Keywords: French Onion Chicken, Orzo Casserole, Comfort Food, Chicken Dinner, Caramelized Onions, Cheesy Casserole