French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups orzo pasta; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 large onions, sliced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting flavors of French onion soup transformed into a cozy casserole with this French Onion Chicken Orzo dish. Tender chicken, creamy cheese, and savory orzo come together with caramelized onions for an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress the whole family. Perfect for busy days, this one-pan meal brings warmth and satisfaction to your table in no time.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-13T17:14:26.000Z

This casserole combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and orzo pasta, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner.

The Essence of Comfort Food

Comfort food has a unique ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, and this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole truly embodies that essence. With each bite, you are transported to the heart of a cozy bistro in Paris, where the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory broth merge with tender chicken. It's a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul, making it the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or intimate dinners.

Cooking this casserole is a delightful experience in itself. The aromatic scent of caramelizing onions fills your kitchen, promising a meal filled with layered flavors. This recipe transforms the iconic French onion soup into a hearty casserole that's both filling and comforting, allowing you to enjoy the beloved flavors in a new and exciting way.

A One-Pan Wonder

In today's busy world, finding recipes that offer convenience without sacrificing flavor is essential. This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole excels in this regard as a one-pan meal. You’ll love how everything comes together in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The combination of orzo, chicken, and creamy cheese results in a dish that cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Not only is it practical, but this casserole is versatile too. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or substitute different proteins as desired. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping, this recipe checks all the boxes, providing both satisfaction and ease in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple accompaniments. A side salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the casserole. Additionally, a crusty French baguette or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bite.

For a more festive touch, consider serving this dish with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio. The wine complements the cheesy and savory notes of the casserole, enhancing the overall meal experience. This combination will surely impress your guests, making any dinner feel special.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups orzo pasta
1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 large onions, sliced
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your casserole:

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet with the onions and cook until the chicken is no longer pink.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the orzo is cooked al dente.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in half of the cheese until melted, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned above.

Variations to Try

Get creative with this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole by experimenting with different cheeses. While Swiss and Gruyere offer a traditional touch, feel free to try sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or even feta for a unique flavor profile. Each option brings its own character to the dish and can be a fun way to mix things up.

Additionally, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These not only impart more nutrition but also enhance the dish's color and texture, making it even more appealing. Tailoring the recipe to your preferences allows the casserole to reflect your personal taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.