Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a cozy, one-pot meal that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender shredded chicken, creamy orzo, and melty cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food for fall, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftovers)
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme; cook 1 minute more.
- Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion mixture. Pour in chicken broth and simmer until the orzo starts to soften, about 7–8 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with mozzarella and Gruyère cheeses.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a browned top. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F until hot.
- Caramelizing the onions is key to the deep flavor.
- Use Gruyère cheese for an authentic French onion taste.
- Add extra broth if the casserole becomes too thick.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute mushrooms or lentils for chicken.
- Add sour cream for extra creaminess or swap orzo for riced cauliflower for a low-carb option.
- Serve with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, Chicken Orzo Bake, Fall Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken Casserole, One Pot Chicken Dinner