No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole is a simple and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy sauce, this casserole requires minimal effort—just mix, cover, and bake without peeking! The end result is a savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Add Chicken
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to seal in the moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not peek or lift the foil during baking to ensure the rice cooks properly.
Serve
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before uncovering. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- No Peeking: It’s important not to remove the foil during baking to ensure the steam cooks the rice and chicken evenly.
- Rice Type: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. Avoid instant rice, as it may become mushy.
- Chicken Thighs: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer a juicier cut of meat.
Variations
- Cheesy Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture before baking and sprinkle additional cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Vegetable Additions: Add 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots to the rice mixture for added color and nutrition.
- Herb Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the rice mixture for an herbaceous flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Green Beans: Serve with a side of steamed green beans for a fresh, vibrant contrast.
- Garden Salad: Pair with a simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Other Soups Can I Use?
You can use cream of celery soup or cream of onion soup in place of the cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Rice from Getting Mushy?
To prevent mushy rice, make sure to use long-grain white rice and do not overbake. Keeping the foil tightly sealed also helps maintain the proper moisture level.
No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy sauce, this one-pot meal is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy this comforting, no-fuss casserole!
Happy Cooking!