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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

If you're searching for a comforting weeknight dinner that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of a pasta bake, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is about to become your new favorite. Caramelized onions, tender chicken, and melty cheeses blend together with orzo for a dish that delivers a perfect balance of savory and creamy textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 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 use half and half for a lighter option
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
  • Stove
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  3. Add the 2 thinly sliced yellow onions along with 1 teaspoon sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized.
  4. For the last minute or two of cooking, stir in the 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
  5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta and toast for about 2 minutes to add extra flavor.
  6. Add 2 cups shredded chicken, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and if using, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or balsamic glaze). Mix well.
  7. Pour in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the orzo to cook in the liquid and absorb the flavors.
  8. Top the mixture with 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the orzo is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite sides such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread.

Notes

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that works perfectly on busy weeknights. Use a rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for convenience, and feel free to adjust the creaminess by opting for half and half. The dish reheats beautifully and can be easily customized with different pasta shapes or cheese varieties depending on what you have available. Enjoy it as a complete meal paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors.