French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal featuring caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and creamy orzo pasta, all baked to golden perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. A perfect blend of savory flavors and cheesy goodness ideal for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Onion Base
- 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 Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
- 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 a lighter option)
Cheese & Optional
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 1 cup and 1/2 cup portions)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
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 slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to combine and release its aroma.
- Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it, which enhances its flavor. Then add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and if using, Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour in Liquids: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquids.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce, coating the pasta and chicken evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the skillet uncovered in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving to add a fresh herbal touch.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for easy preparation and added flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half.
- Make sure to caramelize onions slowly to develop their deep sweet flavor.
- You can add Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for more depth but it’s optional.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered to preserve moisture.
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Casserole, Orzo Casserole, Comfort Food, Chicken Dinner, Cheesy Casserole
