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Looking for a cozy, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? This Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. Juicy chicken thighs, smoky gouda cheese, and tender orzo come together in a creamy, satisfying casserole, all in just one pan.

Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, so it’s a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

A square white plate with a serving of creamy pasta with broccoli and a slice of bread topped with melted cheese, set on a wooden table.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to sear the chicken to perfection, cook the orzo just right, and create a creamy, cheesy sauce that ties everything together. Let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Casserole

For the Chicken:

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1-2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

2 cups gluten-free orzo
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup half and half
½ chicken bouillon cube
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons gluten-free flour
1 ½ cups smoked gouda cheese, shredded
3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

How to Make This Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Casserole

1. Prepare the Chicken

A black frying pan on a stovetop contains cooked pieces of meat and a piece of cooked chicken skin.

Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Stir in a little salt and a small amount of Better Than Bouillon for added flavor. Add the orzo and cook for one minute less than the package instructions. During the last three minutes, add the broccoli. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Roux

Pouring milk into a frying pan with roux on a stovetop.

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in gluten-free flour and stir continuously for two minutes to create a smooth roux.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Person stirring a creamy sauce with a plastic spoon in a black frying pan on a stovetop.

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add parsley and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add the Cheese

A cutting board with mixed shredded cheese is being added to a skillet of sauce on a stove.

Gradually sprinkle in the shredded smoked gouda and Parmesan, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for another minute to fully incorporate the flavors.

6. Combine the Orzo and Broccoli

Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly and let the orzo absorb the creamy flavors.

7. Return the Chicken to the Pan

A hand stirring a creamy mixture with broccoli and meat in a black pan on a stove.

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat until warmed through.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let the casserole sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken and Orzo

Use fresh cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated smoked gouda.
Let the orzo absorb the sauce – The orzo will continue soaking up the creamy flavors as it sits.
Adjust the consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Casserole Recipe

1. Full of Rich, Smoky Flavor

The smoked gouda cheese adds a deep, slightly smoky taste that takes this dish to the next level.

2. Gluten-Free and Family-Friendly

By using gluten-free orzo, this casserole is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities while still being loved by the entire family.

3. Easy One-Pan Comfort Food

This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful orzo, all in one pan for minimal cleanup!