Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting, creamy one-dish meal combining caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and orzo pasta, all baked with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner with rich, savory flavors inspired by classic French onion soup.
Ingredients
Base 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 recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for lighter option
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 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 the 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 pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything well to combine.
- Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. 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 the shredded mozzarella and all the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the casserole is creamy.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key to developing deep flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze is optional but adds wonderful complexity.
- Use an oven-safe skillet or transfer to a casserole dish before baking if needed.
