Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 396 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cheesy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and addictive one-pot meal that combines deeply caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The dish is simmered on the stove and finished with a golden bake in the oven, delivering rich layers of flavor and a wonderfully melty texture. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauté and Base

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Cheese

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half (for lighter option)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Instructions

  1. 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 along with the sugar and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes to release its aroma without burning.
  2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir the orzo into the caramelized onions and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to toast lightly and absorb flavor. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
  3. Pour in Liquids: Add the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream or half and half to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
  4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese along with the grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses melt fully into the creamy orzo and chicken mixture.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  6. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow it to set slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor, but you can use any cooked shredded chicken.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Caramelize the onions slowly to develop deep flavor; rushing this step will result in weaker taste.
  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the cooked mixture to a casserole dish before baking.
  • Optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze adds a subtle umami depth but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it firm up for cleaner portions.

Find it online: https://oliviadinner.com/cheesy-french-onion-chicken-orzo-casserole-recipe/