Craving a dinner that’s both comforting and quick to prepare? Look no further than French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole. This recipe marries the classic flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and delightful orzo pasta, creating a healthy and satisfying meal that’s ready in a flash. As a busy parent, I know how valuable time is – that’s why I adore this recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
My French Onion Inspiration
My love for French onion soup began during a chilly trip to Paris years ago. I can still picture that small, cozy bistro, the aroma of caramelized onions filling the air. I wanted to capture that same rich and comforting flavor in an easier, weeknight-friendly dish. That’s how the French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole was born – a little bit of Paris in your kitchen, no passport required.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium
Cheese:
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Butter:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons of dry sherry or white wine for enhanced flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Prep the Onions: Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven) over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized – about 25-30 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor! Don’t rush it.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Add the chicken to the skillet with the caramelized onions and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. If using, add sherry or white wine.
- Incorporate the Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Ensure the orzo is submerged in the liquid.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven. Top with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
- Broil (Optional): If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole!
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven) over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized – about 25-30 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor! Don’t rush it.2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 large yellow onions
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Add the chicken to the skillet with the caramelized onions and cook until browned on all sides.1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Salt and pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. If using, add sherry or white wine.4 cups chicken broth, 2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine
- Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Ensure the orzo is submerged in the liquid.1 cup orzo pasta
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the skillet from the oven. Top with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.1 cup Gruyère cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole!
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