Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
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 great); 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 a 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

Description

A hearty casserole blending caramelized onions with tender orzo and shredded chicken, topped with gooey cheese—a comforting twist on classic French onion soup.

Ingredients

Scale

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 great)
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 a 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

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 beautifully caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes.
Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Then add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Mix everything well.
Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the 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, mixing until melted and creamy.
Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining half cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley enhances the presentation.

Notes

Pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with crusty garlic bread or French bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: French Onion, Casserole, Chicken, Orzo, Comfort Food