French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the richness of French onion soup with tender chicken and pasta. This hearty casserole is full of caramelized onions, savory chicken, and creamy cheese, making it an ideal meal for family dinners. It brings warm, cozy flavors to your table, and the best part is that it’s simple to make. With just one skillet and a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without too much fuss. Perfect for busy evenings, this casserole can easily become a family favorite. Let’s learn how to make it!

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can use leftover chicken, and it cooks quickly. The caramelized onions give this dish a sweet and savory flavor that works perfectly with the creamy sauce. Cheese lovers will enjoy the gooey melted mozzarella on top. Plus, this casserole is filling and satisfying without being overly heavy. It’s a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy and is sure to impress your guests.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Ingredients 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 Directions

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 sauce 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.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This casserole is perfect by itself but pairs nicely with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy it warm for the best flavor!

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings for quick meals.

Tips for the Best French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

For the best flavor, take your time caramelizing the onions. This deepens their taste. Feel free to experiment with herbs or add some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. Using a mix of cheeses can also give your casserole a unique flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Try using different types of cheese for a twist. You can also swap the orzo for another type of pasta like penne or fusilli.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Yes, you can add diced uncooked chicken to the skillet after caramelizing the onions. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, then continue with the recipe.

Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and then refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just bake it straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat, but you can use gluten-free pasta if needed to make a gluten-free version.

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