Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, caramelized onions, and cheesy orzo in a savory beef broth. Baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping, it’s an easy and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked orzo
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Caramelize Onions: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the thinly sliced onions until they become soft and caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded chicken, caramelized onions, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish lightly with oil or butter and transfer the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese evenly on top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and to avoid burns.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with cooked mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Swiss or Gruyere cheese can be substituted with mozzarella for a milder taste or cheddar for a sharper flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To add a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking.
