Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 2 cups orzo pasta; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 cups beef or chicken broth; 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight 🧅🍗✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a hearty and irresistible chicken casserole that combines savory flavors with comforting textures, look no further. The French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight is a perfect blend of tender chicken, caramelized onions, and al dente orzo pasta baked to perfection. This chicken oven recipe is designed to make your dinner both flavorful and effortless, ideal for busy weeknights or Sunday family feasts. Let’s explore how to create this delicious baked chicken casserole that everyone will love!

2. Ingredients Needed for the French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnishing (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Chicken Bake

Preparation of Caramelized Onions and Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. In the same skillet, brown the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking the Orzo and Onion Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish or casserole, combine the uncooked orzo pasta, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Spread the caramelized onions and cooked chicken evenly over the surface. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes until the pasta absorbs the broth and becomes tender.

Assembling the Casserole

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

4. Storage Tips for Your French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat covered with foil or a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

5. Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

This chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, like the Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad. Add a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort. For a light beverage, consider a crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute the orzo with another pasta?

Absolutely! You can use other small pasta like small shells or broken spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?

It can be made gluten-free by choosing gluten-free orzo or rice instead of traditional pasta.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick reheating or crisping leftovers to add a crunchy topping to your casserole.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: An all-in-one appliance to prepare ingredients efficiently and enhance your cooking experience.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Helps in cooking caramelized onions and chicken evenly without sticking.

8. Conclusion

The French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight is a savory and satisfying chicken bake that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this baked chicken casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will adore!

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight