Go Back
Delicious French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole fresh out of the oven

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines tender chicken and al dente orzo pasta with the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. It's an easy yet impressive dish perfect for a family dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole Base
  • 1.5 lb Chicken breast, boneless, skinless cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta uncooked
  • 2 large Yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 4 cups Beef broth
  • 0.5 cup Dry white wine optional
  • 1 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Black pepper or to taste
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Onions and Orzo
  1. Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until deeply caramelized.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in flour and cook for another minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in beef broth and white wine (if using), bringing the mixture to a simmer until slightly thickened; stir in fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Meanwhile, cook orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Stir the cooked shredded chicken and drained orzo into the skillet with the caramelized onion mixture.
  2. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole.
  3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  4. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.