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 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 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

Description

A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of classic French onion soup with the heartiness of a chicken casserole, perfect for any occasion.

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 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 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

Instructions

Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deeply golden. Add the minced garlic in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and lightly toast it for about 2 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Mix thoroughly.
Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then 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 cheese along with the grated Parmesan. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for about 10–15 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

For variety, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or swapping out cheeses for different flavor profiles.

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: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, one-pot meal, chicken dish