Description
A creamy, cheesy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo baked to golden perfection.
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
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
Instructions
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook 20–25 minutes until deeply caramelized. Stir in garlic during last 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and cook 2 minutes to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions slowly adds deep flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Stovetop & Oven
- Cuisine: French-Inspired