Description
A creamy, cheesy one-pan French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole filled with caramelized onions, tender chicken, and golden baked comfort.
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
Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter and olive oil. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes until caramelized. Stir in garlic.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in orzo and cook for 2 minutes. Add chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire.
3. Pour in Liquids: Add broth and cream, simmer 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
5. Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella, bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest before serving.
Notes
Garnish with thyme or parsley. Great for meal prep. Leftovers reheat beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, creamy orzo casserole, cheesy chicken bake