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Close up of French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole with caramelized onions and a creamy cheese pull scooped from a white baking dish

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a heartfelt hug in a dish, combining the deep, savory flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo. It’s the kind of comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for gathering the family around the table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add uncooked orzo, cooked chicken, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses and some reserved caramelized onions.
  7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  8. Let rest a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute whole wheat orzo, use evaporated milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and choose reduced-fat cheeses. Leftovers store well for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: french onion chicken, orzo casserole, comfort food, baked chicken, cheesy casserole

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Find it online: https://www.havenofrecipes.com/french-onion-chicken-orzo-casserole/