French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is an easy and delicious dish that combines the comforting flavors of French onion soup with chicken and pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. The rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender orzo and caramelized onions, makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser. You can enjoy it as a one-pan meal, making cleanup simple. Plus, it can easily feed a hungry group!

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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 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)

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. Then, add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids: Add 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 of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the 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

Serve the casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a crunchy green salad or some crusty bread. You can also top it with fresh herbs for added flavor and a nice presentation.

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a pan over low heat before serving again. If you want to freeze it, make sure the casserole is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

To enhance flavor, try using different types of cheese, like Gruyère or cheddar.
For extra caramelization, cook the onions a little longer, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half and half.
Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more nutrition.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding herbs like rosemary or oregano. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sauté them with the onions for a delicious twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use uncooked chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just add it to the skillet before you add the broth and let it cook through before adding the orzo.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add more vegetables for a heartier meal.