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; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 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 rich flavors of French onion soup with chicken and orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.

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
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
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 the onions are golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1-2 minutes.
Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in liquids: Add chicken broth and cream to the mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Bake the casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

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