French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole (Print-Friendly Version)

Caramelized onions, tender chicken, orzo, and melted cheese create a hearty, comforting main dish.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 - 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
05 - 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
06 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 1/2 cup sour cream
08 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - Salt, to taste
13 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (Optional)

14 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

# How to Make It:

01 - Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until onions become golden and fully caramelized.
02 - Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine caramelized onions, shredded chicken, uncooked orzo, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
03 - Fold half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
04 - Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the casserole. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
05 - Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the orzo is cooked through. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For the most flavorful result, use a well-seasoned rotisserie chicken. Allow the casserole to rest briefly after baking for cleaner portions.