No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm casserole coming out of the oven, and this No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole truly embodies that homestyle feel. It’s a dish I often find myself returning to, especially on bustling weeknights when time slips through my fingers. Just mix a handful of ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic while you take a breather. This recipe is not only effortless but also a crowd-pleaser—perfect for families and guests alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
You might be wondering why this particular casserole deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation. Well, for starters, it’s incredibly versatile and budget-friendly, making it a savvy choice for families looking to save without sacrificing flavor. The one-dish preparation means fewer dishes to clean up—always a win in my book!
Imagine serving this hearty meal on a chilly evening, where the aroma fills every corner of your home, instantly making it feel cozier.
“This casserole has become a staple in our household! It’s so easy to prepare and my kids just gobble it up.”
Preparing No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole
Making this dish is straightforward, and here’s a quick overview of how it all comes together. You start by combining the rice, broth, cream of chicken soup, and spices, creating a deliciously seasoned base. Then, the chicken breast is placed right on top, sealing in moisture and flavor as it bakes. Simply cover the dish with foil and let the oven do all the work—less time worrying and more time enjoying!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started:
- Chicken breast: the star of the dish
- Rice: long-grain white rice works best
- Cream of chicken soup: this adds lovely creaminess
- Onion powder & garlic powder: for added depth of flavor
- Chicken broth: to infuse moisture and seasoning
- Salt and pepper: basic staples to elevate taste
Feel free to swap out the chicken breast for thighs for a richer flavor, or use brown rice; just remember it may impact cooking time.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Place the chicken breast on top of the rice mixture, ensuring it’s nestled well.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
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Best ways to enjoy it
While this casserole is hearty and satisfying on its own, a few complementary sides can elevate your meal even further. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add color and texture. Some warm crusty bread is also a great touch for mopping up any creamy leftovers!
How to store & freeze
Leftovers? No problem! Make sure to let your casserole cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, portion it out and use freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last up to 3 months. Just ensure to label everything with the date for easy tracking!
Pro chef tips
To take your No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole to the next level, consider searing the chicken before placing it in the casserole. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Additionally, you can mix in some vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or even a cheesy sauce for a different taste profile. For those avoiding gluten, ensure you use gluten-free broth and soup! You could also experiment with herbs, adding thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Common questions
How long does this dish take to prepare?
- Prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, and then it takes about an hour to cook in the oven.
Can I use brown rice instead?
- Yes, but be mindful that brown rice typically requires more cooking time, about an hour and a half total.
How do I safely reheat leftovers?
- Gently reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Always return leftovers to the fridge within two hours of serving.
With its simplicity and wholesome flavors, No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the ease it brings to your cooking routine while savoring the delightful taste!
Print
No-Peek Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
A comforting and effortless casserole made with chicken, rice, and cream of chicken soup, perfect for bustling weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Place chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are nestled well.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Notes
Feel free to swap chicken breast for thighs or use brown rice, but cooking time may vary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, rice, easy dinner, comfort food