French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole – Cozy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

There are certain flavors that instantly feel like comfort, and French onion is at the top of that list. Rich caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese create a depth of flavor that feels indulgent and familiar all at once. This French onion chicken orzo casserole takes everything you love about classic French onion soup and transforms it into a hearty, oven-baked meal that’s perfect for cozy nights at home.

This casserole is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas as it bakes. Sweet onions slowly caramelize, chicken becomes tender and flavorful, and orzo absorbs all that savory goodness, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without the constant stirring. Topped with melted cheese, it’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make.

What makes this dish especially appealing is how balanced it feels. The sweetness of the onions pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and broth, while the orzo provides a soft, hearty base that holds everything together. A touch of thyme adds warmth and depth, tying all the flavors into one cohesive, crave-worthy casserole.

This French onion chicken orzo casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a meal that feels special without requiring complicated steps. It’s a true one-dish wonder—easy to prep, easy to bake, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella cheese
• Optional garnish: fresh thyme or parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelized.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add diced chicken, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook until chicken is lightly browned.
6. Stir in uncooked orzo, coating it in the onion and chicken mixture.
7. Pour in broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
8. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A cozy baked casserole with caramelized onions, tender chicken, creamy orzo, and melted cheese.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Dinner

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large onions thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 pound chicken breast diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup orzo uncooked
• 2 1/2 cups broth beef or chicken
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups cheese Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella, shredded
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil

Method

 

1. Caramelize onions in butter and olive oil until deep golden.
2. Add garlic and chicken, cooking until lightly browned.
3. Stir in orzo, broth, and cream, then transfer to baking dish.
4. Bake covered, then top with cheese and bake until bubbly.

Notes

Allow casserole to rest before serving for best texture.

Tips & Tricks

• Caramelize onions slowly for maximum flavor.
• Use Gruyère for classic French onion flavor.
• Let the casserole rest before serving to allow the orzo to set.

Variations

• Add sliced mushrooms for extra depth.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Stir in spinach before baking for added greens.
• Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or green beans.
• Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQ

• Can I use rice instead of orzo? Orzo works best for texture, but small pasta shapes can substitute.
• Is beef broth necessary? Beef broth adds depth, but chicken broth works well too.
• Can I make this ahead? Yes, assemble ahead and bake when ready.

History / Fun Facts
French onion flavors originated in humble kitchens where onions and broth were transformed into something extraordinary. This casserole brings those classic flavors into a modern, family-friendly format that’s both nostalgic and comforting.