French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
A comforting casserole of creamy orzo, tender chicken, and caramelized onions, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Onions
- 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)
For the Casserole
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional) for added depth
Instructions
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 for a fragrant finish.
Add Orzo and Chicken
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
- Next, add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix everything well to combine.
Pour in Liquids
- Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer and then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and absorbs some of the liquid.
Add Cheese
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For best results, serve hot with a light green salad or crusty bread. This dish is versatile; feel free to add vegetables or customize with different cheeses.