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Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole topped with golden crispy onions

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A cozy one-pan casserole featuring caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 47 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup dry orzo
  • 1 cup beef broth, warmed
  • 1 cup chicken broth, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • splash white wine (optional)
  • parsley (for garnish, optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a wide oven-safe skillet over medium. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and let them soften, stirring every few minutes until golden and sweet, about 20 to 25 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic for a minute. If using wine, deglaze the pan with a splash, scraping up the browned bits.
  3. Push the onions to the sides, add the chicken to the center, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is just losing its pink, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the orzo, thyme, and Worcestershire. Stir to coat the orzo. Add the warm broths and cream. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning.
  5. Sprinkle half the cheese into the skillet and fold it in. Top with the remaining cheese.
Baking
  1. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the top is bubbly. Broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes for extra color if desired.
  2. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Warm broth helps the orzo cook evenly, so be sure to use warm liquid.