French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole: A Creamy, Comforting One-Dish Meal
A creamy, comforting one-dish meal with caramelized onions, tender chicken, and orzo pasta in a savory cheesy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 1 ½ 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
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt; cook 20–25 minutes until caramelized. Add garlic last 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and cook 2 minutes. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using.
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan until creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining ½ cup mozzarella on top and bake uncovered 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
- Optional: add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
- Ensure onions are deeply caramelized for rich flavor.