French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Posted on October 26, 2025

🖋️ Written by Emma

Why Make This Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The combination of melted cheese and the savory garlic aroma will make this casserole a favorite at your table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in one pan, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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 the 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 the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce 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 of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the 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 French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. It can also be enjoyed on its own, as it’s hearty and filling.

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for about 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
Make sure to stir frequently while the orzo is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Try adding in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.
Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the flavors meld together nicely.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by using different types of cheese, such as gouda or cheddar. If you want a lighter option, use half and half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken for cooked sausage or turkey for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Yes, you can add uncooked chicken breast to the casserole. Just cut it into small pieces and cook it with the onions before adding the orzo.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just assemble it, cover it well, and store it in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. Add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for more flavor.