No-Peek Chicken Casserole

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor. This one-pot dish is a hands-off meal that requires minimal prep work. Just assemble the ingredients, cover, and bake! The dish is made with tender chicken breasts, long-grain rice, and a creamy combination of cream of chicken and cream of celery soups. A packet of onion soup mix brings an extra layer of flavor, and the chicken broth adds moisture to ensure everything cooks perfectly together. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal for a busy day, No-Peek Chicken Casserole is here to deliver a satisfying, fuss-free meal that everyone will love.

What makes this casserole stand out is its simplicity. With a few pantry staples and no need to stir, you can set it in the oven and let it work its magic. As the casserole bakes, the chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the rice absorbs the creamy, flavorful sauce, resulting in a deliciously comforting dish. It’s the kind of recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also ensures a warm, hearty meal for your family or guests. So, if you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dish with minimal effort, this No-Peek Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Prep Time

This casserole requires very little effort to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

2. One-Pot Meal

Everything cooks in one dish, which means less cleanup for you.

3. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and chicken broth creates a rich, creamy sauce that infuses the rice and chicken with delicious flavor.

4. Tender Chicken

The chicken breasts cook right in the casserole, remaining juicy and tender throughout the baking process.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes, such as using chicken thighs for a richer flavor or adding vegetables like peas or carrots.

Ingredients

• Long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• Cream of chicken soup
• Cream of celery soup
• Low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• Onion soup mix
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add frozen peas, carrots, or other vegetables to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Different Protein: Swap out the chicken for turkey or pork for a variation in protein.
• Rice Alternatives: Use brown rice instead of white rice for a heartier version. Note that you may need to adjust the cooking time.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole 10 minutes before it’s done for a cheesy crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base

In a large baking dish, spread the uncooked long-grain rice evenly across the bottom. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, and onion soup mix. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) on top of the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour. Avoid opening the foil while it bakes to ensure the casserole remains moist and the rice cooks properly.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After 1 hour, remove the foil and check if the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). If the rice is not fully cooked, cover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil to trap the steam and moisture during baking. This helps ensure the rice cooks properly and the chicken stays tender.
• If you want a more flavorful rice base, consider using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water.
• For a creamier casserole, you can add a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture before baking.
• If you’re using chicken thighs, keep in mind they may take slightly longer to cook than chicken breasts.

How to Serve

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for added freshness. For a heartier meal, serve it with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding a little extra broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer bake time.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this casserole and can provide a slightly richer flavor.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes of bake time if baking from cold.

4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. What can I use if I don’t have cream of celery soup?

You can substitute with an extra can of cream of chicken soup or use another cream soup, like cream of mushroom, for a different flavor.

6. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free onion soup mix and check that your cream soups are gluten-free.

7. Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute water for chicken broth, though using broth will enhance the flavor of the casserole.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

9. Can I add cheese to the casserole?

Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

10. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a hassle-free, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. With minimal prep time and a hands-off approach, this dish delivers tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy sauce all in one pan. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a family gathering, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Easy, comforting, and full of flavor – this recipe has it all!

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