French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole – A Rich, Cheesy, One-Pot Comfort Classic
A rich and creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and cheesy orzo baked to golden perfection. Comfort food with deep, savory French onion flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American-French Inspired
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
- 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
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook 20–25 minutes until deeply caramelized.
- Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Slow caramelizing onions is key for deep flavor.
- Add extra broth if orzo absorbs too quickly.