Description
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole transforms the classic flavors of French onion soup into a creamy, cheesy baked dish. With caramelized onions, tender chicken, orzo pasta, and melty Gruyère, it’s a comforting, one-pan meal perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into chunks or shredded)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional topping: crispy fried onions or extra cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
- Add garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute.
- Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned (or stir in pre-cooked chicken).
- Stir in orzo, chicken broth, and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix in half the shredded Gruyère and all the Parmesan until melted.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish (if not already using oven-safe skillet). Top with remaining cheese and optional crispy onions.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and orzo is tender.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Notes
- Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for a faster version.
- Add mushrooms with the onions for extra flavor.
- Substitute milk for cream for a lighter option.
- Try mozzarella or white cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- For a freezer-friendly option, assemble and freeze before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
