Homemade French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
This dish is the ultimate cozy weeknight meal, featuring tender orzo pasta and juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, onion-infused sauce. The crowning glory is a thick layer of melted cheese and crispy fried onions that provide a satisfying crunch in every single bite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 1.5 cups Orzo pasta uncooked
- 2 Large yellow onions thinly sliced
- 3 cups Beef broth
- ½ cup Heavy cream
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 2 cups Gruyère or Swiss cheese shredded
- 1.5 cups Crispy fried onions
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dried thyme or Herbs de Provence
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize: In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Sauté: Add garlic and thyme to the onions and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the dry orzo and toast for another minute.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until orzo is mostly tender and liquid is reduced.
- Combine: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, and 1 cup of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish (or keep in an oven-safe skillet).
- Top: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese and the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the onions are extra crispy.
- Serve: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.