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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This comforting and flavorful French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, packed with caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy mozzarella, is perfect for dinner parties or hearty weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, French
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main ingredients
  • 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 a lighter option)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional) (for added depth)

Method
 

Caramelize the Onions
  1. 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.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Add Orzo and Chicken
  1. Once the onions are caramelized, add the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
  2. Then, add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheese
  1. Once the orzo is tender, stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top.
  2. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Serve
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

You can customize this casserole by adding leftover vegetables or substituting chicken with sautéed vegetables for a meat-free option. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.