No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy soup, and seasoned rice into a one-pan dish that practically cooks itself. The best part? You don’t have to peek while it’s baking, making it an easy and fuss-free recipe that results in a flavorful, hearty meal.

Ingredients

1 cup long grain white rice
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup water
1 package dry onion soup mix
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and water.
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the top.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours. Do not peek!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken breasts with a plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the rice mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Different Soups: If you prefer, you can substitute the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with other flavors like cream of celery or cream of broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.

10 FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so you might need to bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Can I make this casserole in advance? Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly and bake the next day.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and may add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content.
Why can’t I peek during baking? The “no peek” rule ensures that the rice cooks properly and doesn’t dry out. Opening the oven lets the heat escape, potentially ruining the cooking process.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Frozen chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a slightly longer baking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I serve this casserole with? This casserole is a complete meal, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
How do I thaw frozen casserole? Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake from frozen, but it will take longer.
Can I use instant rice? It’s best to use long grain white rice, as instant rice may not absorb the liquid properly and result in a mushy texture.
What if I want to make a bigger batch? If you’re feeding a larger group, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Conclusion

No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole is an incredibly easy and delicious dinner option. The combination of creamy soups, seasoned rice, and tender chicken makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The best part is that it requires minimal prep and cooks all in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try some fun variations, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!