Name: The Ultimate Guide to French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French-American
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 for added depth

Description

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines sweet caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, creamy orzo, and melted mozzarella with Parmesan for a rich, comforting meal. Inspired by classic French onion soup, this cheesy baked casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners.

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 for added depth

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are deeply caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo, shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Mix in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and convenient.
Gruyère cheese can replace part of the mozzarella for a more authentic French onion flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated with a splash of broth or cream.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: French-American