Chicken Orzo Casserole

Charlotte

This Creamy Chicken Orzo Casserole is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal — rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo come together in a cozy baked dish that’s ideal for family dinners or weekly meal prep. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and minimal cleanup — this is comfort food made effortless.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion finely diced
2 cloves garlic minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup spinach or kale chopped
½ cup sliced mushrooms
1 tbsp lemon juice or zest
¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium casserole dish.

Sauté the aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.

Toast the orzo:

Stir in the orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes, letting it lightly toast for extra flavor.

Add liquid and simmer:

Pour in chicken broth and milk. Stir frequently until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid but remains slightly firm.

Mix in chicken and cheese:

Add shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and combined.
(Optional: Add spinach, lemon zest, or mushrooms for extra flavor.)

Bake the casserole:

Transfer mixture to your prepared dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Serve and enjoy:

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Notes

Don’t overcook the orzo before baking — it will continue to soften in the oven.
For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Prepare ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 710mgPotassium: 340mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gCalcium: 230mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Chicken Orzo Casserole, creamy chicken orzo

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