Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well); ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half and half (for lighter option); Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added depth; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 80 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together the rich, sweet flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo, you are in for a treat with this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe. Imagine a bubbling casserole that wraps the deep, savory notes of French onion soup into every tender bite. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends with something both elegant and homey. Trust me, once you try this, it will become one of your favorite weeknight go-to dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white baking dish filled with a creamy pasta casserole, topped with a golden layer of melted cheese and crispy fried onions. The top layer is a mix of light browned cheese and darker, caramelized onion strands swirling around. Small green parsley pieces are scattered evenly, adding color contrast. The casserole layers visible at the sides show soft pasta mixed with a thick, creamy sauce underneath the cheese. The dish rests on a soft gray cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe keeps things focused with simple, familiar ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and the perfect comforting texture. Each item plays an essential role: from the sweetness of caramelized onions to the creamy bliss of melted cheeses.

Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps caramelize the onions beautifully while adding richness to the base.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter and prevents it from burning during the slow cook.
Yellow onions (2 large, thinly sliced): The star ingredient that transforms into deep, sweet caramelized goodness.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): A little boost to speed up and enhance the natural sweetness of the onions.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Seasoning to draw out moisture from onions and deepen their flavor.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds bursts of fragrant, savory undertones that complement the onions.
Orzo pasta (1½ cups): Tiny pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce and packs the casserole with comforting carbs.
Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Provides protein and makes this casserole a hearty meal – rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Herbaceous notes to elevate the overall savory experience.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just enough kick to balance the sweetness and creaminess.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Keeps the casserole moist and infuses subtle poultry flavor.
Heavy cream or half and half (1 cup): Creates that rich, luscious sauce that coats every grain of orzo.
Mozzarella cheese (1½ cups shredded): Melted gooeyness on the inside plus a golden crust on top.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds sharp, nutty depth and an irresistible savory finish.
Optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (½ teaspoon): For those who want a little extra complexity and tang.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Begin by melting the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your thinly sliced onions along with sugar and salt. Stir occasionally and let the onions cook slowly for about 20–25 minutes until they are richly golden and sweetly caramelized. During the last couple of minutes, add the minced garlic for an aromatic touch that melds with the deep onion flavor.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Chicken

Next, stir in the orzo pasta, allowing it to toast lightly in the flavorful oil and butter mixture for about 2 minutes. This extra step builds a subtle nutty taste. Then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and your optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze. Mix everything thoroughly, letting these flavors mingle harmoniously.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquid. This step creates the creamy, luscious environment that defines this casserole.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan cheese. The heat will melt these cheeses into a silky, cheesy sauce that clings to every bit of orzo and chicken. This is where your casserole really begins to feel indulgent and irresistible.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake it, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s bubbling and has developed a gorgeous golden crust. This baking step adds a delightful texture contrast and elevates the dish to something truly special.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like – this final touch brightens the entire dish.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white casserole dish filled with baked macaroni and cheese topped with a golden brown layer of crispy fried onions and sprinkled with fresh green herbs. The top layer is bubbly and browned, while underneath, the creamy cheese sauce coats tender pasta, pulling up in gooey strands as a wooden spoon lifts a portion from the dish. The inside is creamy pale yellow, contrasted by the crunchy caramelized onion layer on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or flat-leaf parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. Consider also adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant finish that complements the caramelized onions.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even some garlicky steamed green beans. A light, acidic side helps balance the creamy, cheesy richness of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve it straight from the skillet to the table for a rustic vibe. Alternatively, use individual ramekins for a charming presentation at parties or special occasions. You could even ladle it into hollowed-out bell peppers or small bread bowls for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen overnight, making leftovers incredibly satisfying.

Freezing

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. To avoid sogginess, it’s best to freeze before baking the cheese topping, then add fresh cheese before baking after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the oven method keeps the cheesy topping crisp and pleasant.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe also work well, but orzo is ideal for its texture and ability to absorb sauce evenly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding mushrooms can provide an extra savory dimension.

Can I prepare this casserole without an oven-safe skillet?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions and cook the orzo in a regular pan, then transfer everything to a baking dish before adding the cheese topping and baking.

How can I lighten up this recipe?

Use half and half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese slightly. You might also replace the mozzarella with part-skim versions for fewer calories.

Does this recipe reheat well for meal prep?

Definitely. It’s a fantastic make-ahead freezer-friendly dish that reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe is a stunning blend of cozy flavors and creamy textures that will quickly find a place in your weekly dinner rotation. It’s comforting yet elegant, straightforward yet packed with delicious depth. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fall in love with it just like I did. Gather your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and get ready for a meal that feels like a big, comforting hug!