This casserole brings the deep, sweet flavor of French onion to a creamy orzo and chicken bake. It is warm, cheesy, and filling. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time. For a simple weeknight meal, try one of these easy crock pot chicken recipes for a different night.
why make this recipe
You make this dish because it is quick, comforting, and full of flavor. Caramelized onions give rich taste without hard work. The orzo cooks in the sauce so you get a one-pan meal with little clean-up. If you need more simple dinners, the same pantry ideas appear in other easy casseroles like beef hash brown casserole.
how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Follow clear steps. Caramelize onions well and use cooked chicken. Finish in the oven for a golden top.
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. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire 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
Serve warm in bowls or scoop onto plates. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A crusty bread slice works well to soak up the sauce. For weeknights, pair with a light side or use leftovers for lunch the next day.
how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave in portions. You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to cut prep time. See similar quick chicken ideas at easy crock pot chicken recipes.
- Brown the onions slowly. Low heat and time bring the best sweet flavor.
- Stir the orzo while it cooks so it cooks evenly and does not stick.
- Taste and adjust salt after adding broth and cheese.
- For a lighter dish, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
variation (if any)
- Mushroom add-in: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra earthiness.
- Swap cheese: Use Gruyère for a more classic French onion flavor.
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Small pastas like ditalini or small shells work. Cooking time may change, so watch texture.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Cook through the stove step, cool, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding extra 5–10 minutes if cold.
Q: Is it okay to use low-fat dairy?
A: You can use half and half or light cream, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
Q: How do I prevent the top from burning in the oven?
A: If it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Q: Can I freeze the whole casserole?
A: Freezing whole is possible, but freeze in a freezer-safe dish and add extra baking time when reheating from frozen.
Conclusion
If you want the original recipe page and full details, visit the full French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole recipe here: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- 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.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.