One-Pot French Onion Chicken Orzo

One-pot chicken orzo combines caramelized onions, savory broth, thyme, and Gruyère for an easy French onion-inspired stovetop dinner.

Prep: 10 min · Cook: 45 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup orzo
• 1 cup gruyère cheese

Cooking instructions

1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic. (about 5 min)
2. Season the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt and the pepper. (about 2 min)
3. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear, stirring occasionally, until browned and the thickest pieces reach 165°F, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate. (about 8 min) — 165°F
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onions and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, then sauté until deeply golden and softened, 12 to 15 minutes. (about 15 min) — Medium heat
5. Stir in the garlic and thyme and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. (about 1 min) — Medium heat
6. Pour in the broth and add the orzo. Bring to a simmer, then cook uncovered, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, 10 to 12 minutes. (about 12 min) — Simmer
7. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Stir in the Gruyère until melted and the chicken is hot throughout, about 2 minutes. (about 2 min) — Medium-low heat
8. Remove from the heat and rest for 5 minutes before serving. (about 5 min)