If you’re looking for an easy, comforting dish that your whole family will love, look no further than this No Peek Chicken Casserole. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy nights when you need a simple dinner that’s full of flavor. The best part? It practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the meal.
Ingredients for No Peek Chicken Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet delicious casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make No Peek Chicken Casserole
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, chicken broth, melted butter, and rice. Stir everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Make sure the chicken breasts are covered in the soup mixture to help them stay moist while cooking.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not peek during the baking process, as the steam helps cook the chicken and rice perfectly.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and carefully remove the foil. The chicken should be tender and the rice should be soft and fully cooked. Serve hot and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love No Peek Chicken Casserole
- Effortless: This casserole requires minimal prep work and only one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Moist and Flavorful: The chicken breasts stay tender and juicy, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the soup mix and broth.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables or switch out the soups to suit your preferences. Try adding peas, carrots, or even a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect No Peek Chicken Casserole
- Don’t Peek: As tempting as it might be, avoid opening the oven while the casserole is cooking. The steam is what keeps the chicken moist and the rice from drying out.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer, you can substitute bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for boneless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add Veggies: For a more complete meal, consider adding frozen peas, chopped carrots, or any other veggies you like. Just mix them into the rice mixture before adding the chicken.
How to Serve No Peek Chicken Casserole
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Serve with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce, or with a side of mashed potatoes if you want to make it extra comforting.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Conclusion
No Peek Chicken Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something easy, delicious, and satisfying. With minimal effort and ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy evening or preparing for a gathering, this casserole is sure to please!