French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
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; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 15, 2026

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole topped with melted cheese and herbs.

Chicken Recipes

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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a dish that seamlessly marries the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with the comforting essence of a creamy pasta bake. Imagine returning home after a long day, craving something hearty and satisfying. This casserole serves as a perfect solution—it’s warm, filling, and packed with deliciousness. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

Reasons to Try It

You’re bound to fall in love with this dish for several reasons. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly; using rotisserie chicken and pantry staples makes this recipe easier on your wallet. It’s also a one-pan wonder—fewer dishes to wash means less hassle in the kitchen! This casserole is perfect for busy families, too; kids adore the creamy texture and cheesy goodness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

"This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is like a warm hug in a bowl! The caramelized onions add so much depth, and it’s so comforting on a chilly night." – A satisfied home cook.

Step-by-Step Overview

Crafting this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by caramelizing the onions to develop a rich flavor base. Next, you’ll toss in the orzo and shredded chicken before adding the creamy sauce. Once everything comes together, a sprinkle of cheese on top ensures that it bakes into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into cooking, gather these essential ingredients to set yourself up for success:

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 a 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

Feel free to swap out the cheeses based on what you have on hand or try using a lighter version of cream as a healthier alternative.

Directions to Follow

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted 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. Just before taking them off the heat, stir in the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Toss in the orzo, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Next, fold in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if using, mixing everything so that it’s evenly distributed.
Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream, stirring until combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the 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 shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. For an added touch, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This casserole is delicious on its own, but don’t hesitate to elevate your dining experience with some creative serving ideas. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, or enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling extravagant, a side of garlic bread can add that perfect crunch!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s that good!), let the casserole cool completely before storing it. You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For the best results, make sure to caramelize the onions slowly to deepen their flavor—patience is key! Additionally, don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze unless you’re avoiding those ingredients; they add a wonderful depth to the dish. If you’re in a time crunch, using pre-cooked chicken significantly cuts down on your prep time.

Creative Twists

This dish is versatile! Want to spice things up? Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste or incorporating different cheeses like Gruyère or aged cheddar for a twist. For a low-carb option, substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to create a lighter version that still packs a punch!

Your Questions Answered

How long does this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole take to prepare?
The total prep and cooking time is around 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create a classic creamy texture, feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy the dish again without losing any flavor or texture.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use any type of chicken?
Yes, you can use grilled chicken breast or even leftover turkey! Just ensure it’s cooked and shredded before adding.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
While this dish is centered on chicken, you can substitute shredded vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a tasty vegetarian variation!

What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
For best results, reheat it in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps retain creaminess.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Definitely! Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount called for fresh—so about 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of fresh.

With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!