No-Peek Chicken Casserole

The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a fuss-free, delicious, and hearty meal, then No-Peek Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish. This one-pan wonder is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping. The best part? You set it and forget it—no peeking allowed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: This recipe is a true dump-and-bake meal. Just mix, assemble, and let the oven do the work.
  • Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream soups and onion soup mix creates a mouthwatering, savory dish.
  • Perfect for Families: It’s kid-friendly, filling, and can easily be doubled to feed a crowd.
  • Minimal Cleanup: With only one baking dish required, there’s little to no mess left behind.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 envelope onion soup mix
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Rice Mixture

In the baking dish, combine the uncooked long-grain rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and chicken broth. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

3. Add the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper, then arrange them on top of the rice mixture.

4. Sprinkle the Onion Soup Mix

Evenly sprinkle the envelope of onion soup mix over the chicken and rice mixture.

5. Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is a crucial step—no peeking! Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The foil helps lock in moisture, ensuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

  • Use Different Chicken Cuts: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs add more flavor and stay extra juicy.
  • Try Different Soups: Swap out cream of celery for cream of mushroom for a deeper, earthier taste.
  • Make It Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a creamy, cheesy twist.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
  • Rice Alternatives: Brown rice can be used, but increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second increments or bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve With No-Peek Chicken Casserole

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with:

  • A crisp green salad
  • Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
  • Dinner rolls or garlic bread
  • A glass of white wine or iced tea

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?
No, instant rice will overcook and become mushy. Stick with long-grain rice for the best texture.

2. Why can’t I peek while it’s baking?
Opening the foil lets out steam, which is essential for evenly cooking the rice and chicken.

3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

4. How can I make this healthier?
Use low-fat cream soups, brown rice, and add more veggies for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a low-effort dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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