French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole (Print Version)
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines tender chicken, caramelized onions, and creamy orzo pasta in a rich, savory bake. A hearty family meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 40 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: French
# Ingredients:
→ The Golden Onion Foundation
01 -
3 large yellow onions (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
02 -
4 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
05 -
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
→ Hearty Casserole Core
06 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
07 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked
08 -
4 cups chicken broth
09 -
1 bay leaf
10 -
2 tbsp olive oil
11 -
1 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
12 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
→ Rich & Melty Topping
13 -
1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
14 -
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
15 -
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
# Instructions:
01 -
Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown and sweet. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, for the last minute.
02 -
Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pot. Stir in 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped, 4 cups chicken broth, 1 bay leaf, 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
03 -
In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces, with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
04 -
Once the orzo is al dente (about 10-12 minutes of simmering), remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the cooked 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs. This forms the hearty base of your Comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.
05 -
In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded, and 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs. This rich and melty topping will crown your Comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.
06 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the orzo and chicken mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the cheesy topping over the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
07 -
Let the Comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, ensuring perfect portions for your family and friends.
# Notes:
01 -
For truly deep flavor, don't rush the onion caramelization. Low and slow is the secret to that classic French onion sweetness.
02 -
Feel free to substitute chicken breast for thighs, adjusting cooking time slightly. For a vegetarian option, omit chicken and add a can of drained cannellini beans or sautéed mushrooms.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
04 -
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or a crusty baguette for dipping.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Cheese grater
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 695 kcal
Total Fat: 35 g
Total Carbohydrate: 51 g
Protein: 40 g