Description
If you’re craving something hearty yet elegant, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is your next go-to comfort dish. Marrying the soul of French onion soup with the creamy, cheesy warmth of a baked pasta, this casserole is rich, savory, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that delivers on both taste and ease. Great for anyone searching for *easy dinner*, *quick comfort food*, or simply new *dinner ideas* that feel special without the stress.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1 cup crispy fried onions
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized—about 25-30 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, stir in butter, garlic, and thyme.
2. Push onions to one side and toast the orzo on the empty side of the pan for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 6-8 minutes until the orzo is partially cooked and liquid slightly absorbed. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Stir in half the Gruyère and all of the mozzarella. Smooth the surface and top with remaining Gruyère and crispy fried onions.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Let rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid and avoid runniness.
For a shortcut, rotisserie chicken works beautifully and cuts down prep time.
Toasting the orzo before simmering adds a nutty depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg