No-Peek Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Casserole Dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, and cream of celery soups, along with the water or chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the rice in the baking dish.
4. Add Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the rice and soup mixture in the baking dish.
5. Top with Onion Soup Mix: Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice.
6. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes without peeking.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple side salad or green vegetables like steamed broccoli or roasted green beans for a balanced, complete meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make a delightful addition.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave on a medium setting to avoid drying out.

Options and Variations

• Add Vegetables: Sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or frozen peas can be added to the casserole for extra texture and nutrients.
• Herb Enhancements: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute the creamy soups with dairy-free versions or homemade cashew cream if preferred.

Common Questions

• Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 15–20 minutes to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
• Why shouldn’t I use instant rice? Instant rice cooks much faster and can become mushy in this recipe, so stick with long-grain rice for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a set-it-and-forget-it dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup – ideal for busy days when you need a hearty meal with minimal fuss.

Indulge in this creamy, tender No-Peek Chicken Casserole that practically cooks itself.