No-Peek Chicken Casserole – An Easy, Flavorful Dinner

This No-Peek Chicken Casserole is an effortless, comforting meal made with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a flavorful blend of seasonings.

Introduction

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a fantastic choice for a simple, delicious dinner that practically cooks itself. The recipe gets its name because once you pop it in the oven, you don’t have to check on it until it’s done. Combining tender chicken, creamy rice, and a blend of seasonings, this casserole is full of rich, comforting flavors that the whole family will love. Everything is mixed together in one dish and baked until perfectly tender and flavorful. Perfect for busy nights or when you need a meal that’s as easy as it is tasty, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 1/2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 (1-ounce) packet onion soup mix
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Assemble the ingredients: Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the rice in a single layer.
3. Mix the soups and seasonings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and water or chicken broth until smooth. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and rice.
4. Add the onion soup mix: Sprinkle the packet of onion soup mix over the top of the casserole, covering the chicken and rice.
5. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring there are no gaps for steam to escape. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes without removing the foil.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Prepare

This casserole is simple to prepare in one baking dish. Just layer the rice and chicken, then cover with a creamy soup mixture and sprinkle with onion soup mix. Cover tightly with foil to trap steam, and let it bake without peeking for the best results.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves about 4-6 people.

FAQs

1. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
   Yes, adding frozen peas and carrots or chopped fresh veggies before baking works well.
2. Can I use a different type of rice?
   Long-grain rice is recommended, but you can try basmati or jasmine rice. Avoid quick-cooking rice as it may become mushy.
3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
   Cream of celery or cream of chicken soup can be substituted if preferred.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is an ideal choice for anyone who loves easy, no-fuss dinners. This casserole brings tender chicken and creamy rice together with a savory blend of soups and seasonings that create a warm, comforting meal. With minimal prep and no need to check on it while it bakes, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy this effortless dish and savor the simplicity and delicious flavors it brings!