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Delicious French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole topped with melty cheese

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A cozy, make-ahead casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and creamy orzo, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the casserole

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional for added depth)

Instructions
 

Caramelize the Onions

  • In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon 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 so the garlic softens but doesn’t burn.

Add Orzo and Chicken

  • Stir in the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and pick up the onion flavor.
  • Add the shredded chicken, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well.

Pour in Liquids

  • Pour in the 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Cheese

  • Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses melt into a creamy mixture.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

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 the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

Serve

  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For strict halal assurance, choose chicken labeled halal and cheeses made with microbial or vegetarian rennet. You can also make a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with hearty mushrooms and using vegetable broth. Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword casserole, Chicken, Comfort Food, French Onion, Orzo
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