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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole - Image 3

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and orzo, all in one convenient dish. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup dry white wine optional, can substitute with chicken broth
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth, orzo, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine everything evenly.
  5. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the cover, sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a richer flavor, use a high-quality Gruyère cheese.
• Avoid overcooking the orzo to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Food Safety:
• Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking