Creamy French Onion Chicken Casserole with Orzo

 Golden, bubbly cheese. Sweet, deeply caramelized onions. Tender bites of juicy chicken tucked into creamy Orzo. This Creamy French Onion Chicken Casserole with Orzo is the kind of comfort food that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing before it even hits the table.

Inspired by the rich flavors of classic French Onion Chicken, this cozy bake brings everything together in one pan for an easy, satisfying Chicken Dinner. The onions slowly caramelize until they’re sweet and savory, wrapping every bite of Chicken Orzo in bold, comforting flavor. Then comes the melty cheese layer—because no great French Onion Chicken Casserole is complete without that irresistible golden top.

What makes this dish so special is the balance. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, the chicken stays tender, and the onions add depth that turns a simple Onion Chicken bake into something truly memorable. It’s hearty enough for Sunday supper yet simple enough for busy weeknights when you need reliable, delicious Chicken Dishes that everyone will love.

Think of it as comfort food with a little flair—like your favorite café classic crossed with a homey casserole. It may not be Pollo Loco, but it brings its own bold personality to the table. And with wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors, it can even lean toward a cozy Recette Santé when paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

One pan, layers of flavor, and plenty of cheesy goodness—this is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.

Creamy French Onion Chicken Casserole with Orzo

A cozy, flavor-packed casserole with caramelized onions, tender chicken, creamy orzo, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday comfort meals.

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🛒 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra richness

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👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Slowly Caramelize the Onions

Place a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil and allow them to melt together. Stir in the sliced onions along with the sugar and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the onions become soft, deeply golden, and caramelized. During the final minute or two, mix in the chopped garlic and cook until fragrant.

2. Incorporate the Orzo and Chicken

Add the dry orzo directly into the pan and stir for about 2 minutes so it lightly toasts in the onion mixture. Mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

3. Add the Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.

4. Mix in the Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella along with the Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely and create a smooth, creamy texture.

5. Finish in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and lightly browned.

6. Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then enjoy warm.