Description

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish combining rich caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all baked with a luscious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s an effortless one-pot meal perfect for cozy dinners, offering a delightful balance of savory flavors and creamy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
3 garlic cloves, minced

Main Components

1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Liquids

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

Cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added depth

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes to enhance flavor.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and the optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
Pour in Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or half and half). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses melt fully into the creamy mixture, creating a rich texture.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the top is bubbly, golden, and slightly crisp.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then enjoy your warm and comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
Half and half can be substituted for heavy cream to reduce richness and calories.
Stir occasionally while caramelizing onions to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and improve slicing.
Feel free to add a splash of Worcestershire or balsamic glaze for more depth of flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg