This No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a cozy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender chicken breasts nestled in creamy, savory rice, this dish is easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and everything bakes together in one dish.
- Set-It-and-Forget-It: Cover and bake without needing to check; let the oven do the work!
- Classic Flavors: Creamy soups and Lipton Onion Soup mix bring rich flavor to every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Minute Rice (brown or white)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water (use the empty soup can to measure)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing pan)
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, water, and Minute Rice.
- Stir until well mixed, then pour the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, spacing them evenly across the pan.
Step 4: Add the Onion Soup Mix
- Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts. This adds a savory, seasoned crust to the chicken as it bakes.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to seal in moisture.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the rice is tender. No need to peek!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil for covering
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The creamy rice and chicken pair well with green beans, broccoli, or a side of garlic bread.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or cover and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrients.
- Swap the Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, slightly richer flavor.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Helpful Notes
- Cover Tightly: Ensure the foil is sealed well to trap moisture, which helps cook the rice and keeps the casserole creamy.
- Cooking Time: Check at the 1-hour mark; if using thicker chicken breasts, they may require additional time.
- Rice Type: Minute Rice is recommended for this recipe since it cooks quickly. Regular rice may require adjustments to the water amount and cooking time.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ina Garten’s Casserole Tip: Use quality ingredients in simple casseroles like this to ensure great flavor from each element.
Ree Drummond’s Easy Dinner Advice: Let covered dishes rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors settle and make serving easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different soup flavor?
Yes, cream of celery or cream of onion works well if you want to switch up the flavor profile.
Can I use regular rice instead of Minute Rice?
Minute Rice is preferred for this recipe, as regular rice may not cook fully with the given liquid and time. If you use regular rice, add extra water and increase the baking time.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but note that bone-in chicken may require additional cooking time to reach doneness.
What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?
If the rice isn’t tender after baking, cover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking periodically.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
This No-Peek Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish with creamy, flavorful rice and tender chicken—perfect for an easy, family-friendly dinner! Enjoy!
No-Peek Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Minute Rice brown or white
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can of water use the soup can to measure
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup mix
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Soups and Rice: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, water, and Minute Rice, stirring until well mixed.
- Layer the Ingredients: Pour the soup and rice mixture into the greased baking pan. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in an even layer.
- Add Onion Soup Mix: Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Notes
- Cover Tightly: Ensure the foil is sealed well to trap moisture, which helps cook the rice and keeps the casserole creamy.
- Cooking Time: Check at the 1-hour mark; if using thicker chicken breasts, they may require additional time.
- Rice Type: Minute Rice is recommended for this recipe since it cooks quickly. Regular rice may require adjustments to the water amount and cooking time.