Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavor of classic French onion soup with tender chicken, creamy orzo, and melted cheese. It’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until deeply caramelized.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add orzo, chicken, thyme, black pepper, broth, cream, and optional Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer to oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until orzo is tender and cheese is golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra onion flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth.
- Swap mozzarella with Gruyère for a more classic French onion taste.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American