Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole brings together rich caramelized onions, creamy orzo pasta, juicy chicken, and melty Gruyère cheese for the ultimate comfort food. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 large yellow onions
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
2 1/2 cups chicken or beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice yellow onions thinly. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low. Add onions and caramelize for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
2. While onions cook, season diced chicken with salt and pepper. In another skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Stir garlic into the caramelized onions. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add dry orzo to onions. Toast for 2–3 minutes.
5. Pour in broth. Bring to simmer. Stir frequently and cook 8–10 minutes, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cooked chicken. Mix well.
7. Transfer to greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
Use yellow onions and don’t rush the caramelizing process—this builds deep flavor.
Stop cooking orzo when al dente—it will finish in the oven.
For added depth, try mixing Gruyère with a touch of sharp white cheddar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: French onion, chicken casserole, creamy orzo, comfort food