Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 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 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 comforting casserole combining caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy mozzarella in a warm, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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 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 golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly. Mix in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream to the mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. 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 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Feel free to switch out the chicken for leftover turkey or explore different cheese combinations to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, French onion, orzo