Making French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Garlic: Once the onions are golden brown, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, caramelized onions, garlic, thyme, orzo, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Mix well, and then season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly.

6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese over the top of the mixture.

7. Bake: Navigate the dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and the top is bubbly and golden brown.

8. Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.

9. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired for a burst of color.

Following these steps will guide you to create this incredible casserole flawlessly. You’ll find that the combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a true culinary delight!