Overview

This dish mixes deep onion taste with chicken, orzo, and cheese. It feels warm and rich. It cooks in one pan and then bakes for a golden top.

Why make this recipe

You can make it fast for a weeknight. It uses rotisserie chicken to save time. The onions add sweet, deep taste. Kids and adults like the creamy cheese and small pasta.

How to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Caramelize the onions first to bring out their sweet taste. Toast the orzo a little so it has good taste. Add chicken, broth, and cream and cook until the orzo is soft. Mix in cheese and bake until the top is brown and bubbly.

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

Directions :

Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter with the olive oil.
Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes. Stir now and then. Cook until the onions are deep gold and soft.
Stir in the minced garlic in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
Add the orzo to the pan. Stir and cook for 2 minutes so the orzo toasts a bit.
Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire or balsamic if you use it. Mix well.
Pour in the chicken broth and the cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Turn the heat low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir now and then. Cook until the orzo is tender.
Stir in 1 cup of the mozzarella and the Parmesan. Mix until the cheese melts and the mix is creamy.
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the last 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.
Bake the dish, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes. Bake until the top is bubbly and light brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before you serve it. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like.

How to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Spoon the hot casserole into bowls or on plates. Add a few fresh thyme leaves or parsley on top. Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables. A slice of crusty bread works well to soak up the sauce.

How to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Cool to room temperature. Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or warm in the microwave in short bursts. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe dish and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Cook the onions slowly. Low heat and time make sweet, deep flavor.
Toast the orzo a bit to add extra nutty taste.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Stir the pot now and then so the orzo cooks even.
If the mix gets too thick, add a splash more broth or cream.
Let the dish rest so the cheese sets and the flavors join.

Variation (if any)

Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for more depth.
Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish.
Swap mozzarella for Gruyere for a nuttier taste.
Make it with turkey or leftover roast chicken.

FAQs

Q: Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked chicken?
A: Yes. Cut raw chicken into small pieces and cook it with the onions before you add the orzo. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: You can, but cook the onions first on the stove. Put all in the slow cooker, add more broth, and cook on low until the orzo is done. Check the orzo often.

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: You can use small pasta like small shells or ditalini. Cooking time may change.

Q: How do I keep the top from burning?
A: If the top browns fast, cover the dish loosely with foil while baking.

Q: Is this dish good for kids?
A: Yes. The small pasta and mild cheese make it easy for kids to eat.

Conclusion

For a similar stovetop-to-oven version, see French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole – The Fervent Mama. For a slow cooker idea with a rich sauce, try Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo. – Half Baked ….