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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a one-pan comfort dish that combines caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and creamy orzo, all topped with melty cheese. It’s cozy, savory, and perfect for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 2 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, sauté sliced onions in olive oil or butter over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Add garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce; cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Stir in the uncooked orzo and coat it in the onion mixture.
  5. Add broth, chicken, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. If not using an oven-safe pan, transfer to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked and orzo is tender.
  7. Remove from oven, stir in sour cream or cream if using, then top with shredded cheese.
  8. Return to oven uncovered, or broil for 2–3 minutes, until cheese is golden and melted.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For best caramelized onions, cook low and slow—don’t rush this step.
  • Add mushrooms or spinach for more veggies, or deglaze onions with a splash of white wine for extra depth.
  • Use cooked rotisserie chicken by adding it halfway through the bake time to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/french-onion-chicken-orzo-casserole/