Go Back
–+ servings
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo for a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for cooking onions.
  • 4 large Yellow Onions Opt for sweet varieties.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Enhances caramelization.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Key seasoning.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Main carbohydrate.
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Rotisserie chicken works well.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Herbaceous flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Adds depth.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream For a rich texture.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese For melting.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese For flavor.
Optional Enhancements
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce For umami depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze Optional drizzle.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 30-40 minutes until deeply golden.
  2. While onions caramelize, season the shredded chicken with salt and pepper. In another skillet, heat olive oil and add chicken. Sear until lightly browned.
  3. Once onions are caramelized, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth. Stir in orzo, heavy cream, thyme, and chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, mix in half of the mozzarella and sprinkle the remaining on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with thyme or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This casserole is both comforting and a stunning centerpiece. Perfect for family or gatherings.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!