French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

By:

octobre 23, 2025

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with easy preparation. This cheesy and creamy casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. The sweetness of caramelized onions pairs beautifully with tender chicken and orzo, creating a meal that warms the heart. Plus, it’s an exciting way to get your family to enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort. Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! 🍽️✨

why make this recipe

This casserole is not only delicious but also straightforward, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The combination of caramelized onions and gooey cheese elevates simple ingredients into something special. It’s also a great way to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie from the store, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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 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)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

"This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free."

Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups & spoons
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
Baking dish (if needed)

Directions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. 🧅 Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender. 🥣
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. ⏲️
Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. 🌿

how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serve this delicious casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for lunch leftovers the next day!

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

💡 Pro Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare the onion mixture a day before and store it in the fridge. Just add the orzo and liquids before baking.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor twist!
Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrients and color.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Just freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

variation

You can swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or even a plant-based protein to make this dish vegetarian-friendly!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! You can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish.