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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Emily Grace
If you want a comforting, hearty meal, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe is perfect. It combines tender chicken, caramelized onions and creamy orzo pasta in one delicious dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound 450 g boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish lightly with butter or oil.

Caramelize the Onions

  • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and golden brown.

Cook the Garlic

  • Add minced garlic to the onions. Stir for one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

Cook the Chicken

  • Add chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook until lightly browned.

Add the Orzo

  • Stir uncooked orzo into the chicken and onion mixture, mixing evenly with the other ingredients.

Add Chicken Broth

  • Pour in chicken broth. Stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes on medium heat.

Add Cheese and Sour Cream

  • Stir in shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese and sour cream. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

  • Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread evenly with a spatula for uniform baking.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.

Bake in Oven

  • Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until casserole is bubbling and cheese is lightly golden.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove casserole from oven. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve warm with a side of vegetables or salad.

Notes

  • Use Swiss or Gruyere cheese for authentic French onion flavor.
  • Caramelize onions slowly for the best sweetness and depth.
  • Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
  • Use chicken broth instead of water for richer flavor.
  • Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to set layers.
Keyword French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe