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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole made with caramelized yellow onions, tender shredded chicken, orzo, chicken broth, cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a rich and comforting one-dish dinner.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, rotisserie works well
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream, or half and half for lighter option
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze, for added depth

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for about 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are very soft, reduced, glossy, and golden-brown.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. If using Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze, stir it into the onions at this stage.
  4. Add the orzo and stir to coat it with the onion mixture. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, and black pepper.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Cook according to the orzo package directions, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the mixture is creamy. If it becomes too thick before the orzo is tender, add a small splash of broth as needed.
  8. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the Parmesan.
  9. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
  10. For a more golden top, briefly broil at the end, watching carefully so the cheese does not burn.
  11. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Caramelize the onions slowly for the deepest French onion flavor and best texture.
  • Heavy cream creates the richest result; half-and-half can be used for a lighter casserole.
  • Leftover casserole thickens as it cools. Add a small splash of broth, milk, or cream when reheating to loosen the orzo.
  • Author: Emmy Carter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop & Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 625

Keywords: french onion chicken orzo casserole, chicken orzo casserole, french onion chicken casserole, creamy chicken orzo, chicken orzo recipe