Description
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole blends caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and creamy orzo with melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, cozy, and perfect for both weeknights and gatherings.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook for 25-30 minutes until golden. Add balsamic vinegar and stir for 2 more minutes.
2. Add diced chicken, thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, and remaining salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add orzo, broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F. Stir in half the cheeses. Transfer to a casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
5. Let sit 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Don’t rush the caramelization step—it’s key to the flavor.
You can sub Gruyère with Swiss or fontina if preferred.
Make ahead by assembling before baking and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: french onion chicken orzo casserole, creamy chicken casserole, cozy weeknight dinner