A warm, cheesy casserole that tastes like French onion soup with chicken and orzo. It is cozy and easy to make.

introduction

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole mixes sweet caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo. It cooks mostly in one pan and then finishes in the oven. If you like simple baked chicken meals, also try this dump-and-bake chicken Parmesan casserole for another easy option.

why make this recipe

This recipe is good because:

It uses basic ingredients you may already have.
It is creamy, hearty, and fills a family.
It cooks fast and cleans up easily since you use one skillet and a quick bake.

how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Make this dish in three main parts: caramelize the onions, cook the orzo with chicken and liquids, then add cheese and bake. Work step by step and keep the heat low when simmering so the orzo cooks without drying out.

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 (for added depth)

Directions :

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serve warm, spooned onto plates or family-style from the skillet. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. For bread lovers, a crusty roll or garlic toast pairs well. You can also try it with a buttery cracker side like in an easy chicken casserole with Ritz for a crunchy contrast.

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Refrigerate: Cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in portions.
Freeze: Cool, place in freezer-safe containers, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Take time to caramelize the onions — flavor comes from them.
Use rotisserie chicken for speed.
Stir the orzo while it simmers so it cooks evenly.
If the casserole gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Use half and half for a lighter dish, or heavy cream for extra richness.

variation (if any)

Add mushrooms when caramelizing the onions for more depth.
Swap mozzarella for Gruyère for a more classic French onion flavor.
Use turkey or leftover roast chicken instead of rotisserie.
Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken, then add mushrooms or white beans.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Small pastas like ditalini or small shells work, but adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Do I need an oven-safe skillet?
A: Yes, it makes finishing in the oven easy. If you don’t have one, transfer to a baking dish before baking.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can prepare through step 4, cool, and refrigerate. Bake later, adding the top cheese before baking.

Q: Is Worcestershire sauce required?
A: No. It adds depth, but you can skip it or use a little balsamic glaze.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Keep an eye on liquid while simmering and add extra broth if it looks dry. Cover while simmering to keep moisture.

Conclusion

For more ideas that blend chicken, pasta, and rich flavors, see this take on French onion chicken and orzo from Half Baked Harvest: Half Baked Harvest French Onion Chicken and Orzo. You can also compare a similar casserole version at The Fervent Mama for more tips and serving ideas: The Fervent Mama French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.