Print

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich and comforting French onion chicken orzo casserole made with caramelized onions, tender chicken, creamy orzo, and melted cheeses for a cozy, one-dish dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until soft and deeply golden, about 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in the garlic and dried thyme and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook just until lightly browned on the outside.
  5. Stir in the orzo pasta.
  6. Pour in the beef broth, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  9. Remove the foil, sprinkle Gruyère and mozzarella evenly over the top.
  10. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  11. Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
  • Add mushrooms to the onions for extra depth of flavor.
  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream before baking for extra creaminess.
  • Add more broth when reheating if the orzo thickens.

Nutrition