I’ve been making French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for years, and it never fails to bring that cozy bistro feeling straight to my dinner table. This dish combines everything you love about classic French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta, all baked together in one glorious pan.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
I always use yellow onions for this recipe because they caramelize beautifully and develop that deep, sweet flavor that makes this casserole so special. Quality ingredients make a real difference here, so don’t skip the real butter and heavy cream if you can help it. This recipe serves 6 people.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced) – I recommend slicing them evenly for consistent caramelization
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works perfectly) – My preference is using thigh meat for extra juiciness
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – In my experience, low-sodium is key so you can control the salt level
- 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 – I usually add this for extra depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend starting this recipe when you have about 50 minutes from start to finish. The key is not rushing the onions, as that’s where all the magic happens. You’ll need a 10 to 12 inch oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven.
Step 1: In your large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the onions turn a deep golden brown. They should look caramelized and smell incredibly sweet. During the last 1 to 2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic. If the onions start sticking, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of water.
Step 2: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast it. This step adds a nutty flavor to the pasta. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender with just a tiny bit of firmness in the center when you bite into it. If it looks too thick, add a splash more broth. While the orzo cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F.
Step 4: Stir in 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy sauce that coats the orzo.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and develops golden brown spots.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. During this time, the sauce will visibly thicken and the dish will be easier to portion. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like.
Perfect Pairings for French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
This rich, creamy casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides that add freshness and crunch to balance the meal.
Crusty French Bread: There’s no better match for soaking up that amazing sauce. The crispy exterior and soft interior provide perfect texture contrast to the creamy orzo.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream, adding nutritional balance and refreshing crunch.
Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus complements the sweet caramelized onions beautifully, while adding important vegetables to your plate.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic butter bring a pop of color and a tender-crisp texture that works perfectly alongside the soft, creamy casserole.
Caesar Salad: The tangy, garlicky flavors of a classic Caesar salad provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich French onion flavors. If you love chicken-based meals, try pairing this with our Chicken Caesar Sandwich for sandwich night instead.
Looking for more one-pan dinner inspiration? Our Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo uses the same pasta technique with different flavors, or try Marsala Chicken Orzo for a wine-based twist.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop even more overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead option.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the casserole before warming it in the microwave or oven. This keeps the orzo from drying out and restores that creamy texture. I prefer reheating in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
This casserole is incredibly versatile. You can assemble it completely up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate it covered, and then bake it when you’re ready to eat. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. For more freezer-friendly chicken dinners, check out our Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While orzo works best for its creamy texture and sauce absorption, you can substitute with small shells, ditalini, or pearl couscous. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape you choose.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half and half works great for a lighter version, or you can use a mixture of milk and cream cheese for richness. For a dairy-free option, try full-fat coconut milk, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms with the onions, or stir in spinach at the end. For more veggie-packed one-pan meals, try our Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry.
Can I make this without wine or Worcestershire sauce?
Absolutely! The Worcestershire sauce is optional and adds depth, but the dish is delicious without it. You could also substitute with a splash of balsamic vinegar for similar umami notes.
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large 10 to 12 inch oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes.
- 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.
- Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender. Preheat oven to 375°F while the orzo cooks.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken during this time. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
