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 comforting, dramatic casserole featuring caramelized onions, shredded chicken, orzo pasta, and melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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

Assemble and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours, or bake and reheat gently. Freezes well unbaked; add extra baking time when reheating.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

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