French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked orzo; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or Swiss); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup in this delightful casserole. Tender chicken, savory onions, and creamy orzo come together to create a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Topped with crispy cheese, this dish will leave your family asking for seconds and is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-13T09:42:33.364Z

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

French onion soup is a beloved classic that showcases the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey cheese. This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole takes those same delightful elements and transforms them into a hearty, one-dish meal. It's the perfect way to enjoy the essence of French onion soup in a more filling format. With tender chicken and creamy orzo, this recipe is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will keep everyone at the table satisfied.

This casserole is ideal for not only dinner but also makes for excellent leftovers. The flavors deepen over time, and it reheats beautifully, making it a meal prep favorite. Plus, with its cheesy, golden topping, it offers the comforting appeal we all crave after a long day. This recipe is not just about nourishment; it's about creating a dining experience that brings family and friends together around the table.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Life can get hectic, especially during the weekdays when everyone is racing to meet deadlines and commitments. That’s why recipes like this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole become lifesavers. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also comes together in under an hour, allowing you to serve a home-cooked meal without the stress. The pre-cooked orzo cuts down on prep time, so you can focus on sautéing the onions and chicken, knowing a delicious meal is just around the corner.

In addition to being quick to make, this casserole is incredibly forgiving in terms of ingredient flexibility. If you have leftover vegetables or different types of cheese, feel free to mix and match! That's the beauty of casseroles—they easily adapt to what you have on hand, ensuring you don't have to make an extra trip to the grocery store. When you present this dish at the dinner table, you'll be showered with compliments, making the effort completely worthwhile.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked orzo
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or Swiss)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Onions

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

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked orzo and chicken broth, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. Consider adding toasted bread or garlic bread on the side for an extra crunch, perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness. You can also pair it with a light red wine or a refreshing iced tea to round out the meal.

For a heartier dinner, serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables. Seasonal veggies, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add color and flavor, while enhancing the nutritional value of your meal. Whatever sides you choose, this casserole will serve as a comforting and satisfying centerpiece that can easily impress your family and guests.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is simple to reheat—just place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal. To refresh the bubbly cheese topping, consider broiling it for a few minutes at the end, ensuring that it gets nicely browned and crisp.

For longer storage, this casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it an excellent recipe for meal prep, allowing you to have a comforting dish at your fingertips whenever you crave it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.