French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
This heartwarming casserole combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and rich flavors reminiscent of classic French onion soup, creating a magical experience with every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups orzo pasta A delightful pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts You can use thighs for added flavor.
Vegetables
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced For that caramelized sweetness.
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth Homemade or low-sodium for healthier options.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich and creamy texture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese This adds that signature savory punch; Swiss or mozzarella are great substitutes.
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the onions to that perfect golden brown.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder For an easy flavor boost.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Add freshness with a sprinkle of fresh thyme at the end.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the onions are golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet. In the same skillet, add the chicken breasts, seasoned with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and no longer pink in the center, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
Assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, caramelized onions, heavy cream, and half of the Gruyère cheese.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place it at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Fluff the orzo mixture on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese on top.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps with the layering. For a healthier option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use brown rice instead of orzo. Add seasonal veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.