Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: Combines protein and starch in a single dish, reducing cleanup.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable with additional vegetables or different seasonings to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Its creamy texture and savory flavor appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cans water (use the empty soup can for measurement)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients: In the baking dish, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and water until well combined.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice mixture. Season them with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Sprinkle Soup Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the chicken and rice.
- Cover and Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Remember, no peeking!
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli into the rice mixture for added nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melted, cheesy layer.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rice mixture for enhanced flavor.
- Healthier Option: Use low-sodium soups and brown rice for a healthier version; note that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How can I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Ensure you’re using long-grain white rice and maintain the correct rice-to-liquid ratio. Avoid overbaking, as excessive cooking time can lead to mushy rice.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may add extra flavor due to their higher fat content.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?
No, the rice cooks in the oven as it absorbs the liquid from the soups and water during baking.
Can I add other seasonings to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs to enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The dish is ready when the rice is tender, the liquid is absorbed, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add additional baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
What side dishes pair well with No-Peek Chicken Casserole?
Steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or crusty bread complement this casserole nicely.
Can I use homemade soup instead of canned?
Yes, homemade cream of mushroom or chicken soup can be used as a substitute for canned soup.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soups and ensure the onion soup mix is also gluten-free. Additionally, verify that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Why is it called “No-Peek” Chicken Casserole?
The name comes from the instruction to avoid opening the oven or removing the foil during baking, ensuring the steam cooks the rice and chicken properly.
Conclusion
No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a delightful, fuss-free meal that brings comfort to the table. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a family favorite, while its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to satisfy.
No-Peek Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
No-Peek Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken and creamy rice in a flavorful one-pan dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make recipe will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cans water (measured with the soup can)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In the dish, mix rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and water until well combined.
- Lay the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes—no peeking!
- Remove from oven, let sit for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Notes
- Add frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli to the rice mixture for extra nutrition.
- For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- If using brown rice, increase the cooking time as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
