Warm up your kitchen with this comforting One Pot French Onion Orzo with Chicken, a dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s made in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
• 3 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onions and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until the onions are soft, golden, and caramelized. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
3. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the balsamic vinegar to enhance the onions’ sweetness and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

1. Add the orzo to the skillet with the onions, stirring to coat the pasta in the flavorful oil.
2. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add the broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Return the chicken (and any accumulated juices) to the skillet, stirring to combine with the orzo and onions.
2. Cook uncovered for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of broth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

1. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top of the orzo and chicken.
2. Cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes to let the cheese melt, or place the skillet under a broiler for 1-2 minutes for a golden, bubbly top (ensure your skillet is oven-safe if broiling).
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Tips for Success

• Caramelizing Onions: Take your time with the onions to develop their deep, sweet flavor. Low and slow is the key to perfect caramelization.
• Cheese Options: Gruyère is traditional for French onion-inspired dishes, but Swiss, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can work in a pinch.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth for a meatless version. Add mushrooms for extra heartiness.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot French Onion Orzo with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of a pasta dish. The one-pot method means fewer dishes, and the combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and melty cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Enjoy this warm, satisfying meal that brings a touch of French-inspired comfort to your table!