No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort-food casserole that practically makes itself? No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables checks every box! This classic one-pan dish wraps tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and colorful veggies in a rich, creamy sauce — all without fussing over the oven. The magic is in letting it bake undisturbed, allowing the flavors to meld so every bite is savory, cozy, and satisfying. Whether you need a hearty family dinner or a no-stress way to warm up a crowd, you’ll fall for this time-tested favorite!

No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables is refreshingly straightforward, yet each item plays a vital role in building deep flavor and the creamy, comforting texture you crave. Don’t skip these essentials — they’re what makes this dish shine!

  • Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for quick, even cooking and tender bites in every forkful.
  • Long Grain White Rice: Uncooked rice soaks up all those rich flavors as it cooks alongside the chicken — just be sure not to use instant rice!
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds richness and savory depth, melding everything together in a spectacularly creamy sauce.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Brings subtle earthiness, making the casserole taste extra hearty.
  • Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice and chicken with irresistible savory notes while helping everything stay juicy.
  • Frozen Peas and Carrots: These bring color, sweetness, and a pop of texture that balances the creamy elements perfectly.
  • Onion Powder: Delivers that mellow, slow-cooked onion flavor without having to chop a thing.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a layer of subtle warmth and aroma that complements the chicken and vegetables.
  • Paprika: A dusting over the chicken not only boosts color, but adds a gentle, smoky undertone.
  • Salt: Essential to bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient — don’t skimp!
  • Black Pepper: Gives the casserole just the right amount of mild heat and balance.
  • Olive Oil or Melted Butter: A drizzle on top ensures the chicken stays extra moist and gets a lovely finish.
  • Chopped Parsley (optional): A sprinkle before serving adds freshness and a burst of green color.

How to Make No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish

Before diving into assembly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with a bit of oil or nonstick spray. This step ensures that every last scoop of the casserole comes out beautifully without sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Rice and Veggie Base

In your prepared baking dish, add the uncooked long grain rice, both cans of soup, chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together right in the pan until the mixture is uniform and the veggies and seasonings are evenly distributed. You’ll notice the mixture looks a little soupy — that’s exactly what you want so the rice can absorb all the flavor as it bakes!

Step 3: Add and Season the Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts right atop the rice mixture. Sprinkle generously with paprika to give gorgeous color and a hint of smokiness, then drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the chicken. This step keeps the meat tender and adds a golden, flavorful touch once baked.

Step 4: The All-Important “No-Peek” Bake

Now cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, making sure there are no gaps — this is the secret to the No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables! Pop the dish into the oven and resist the urge to peek for a full 1 hour and 30 minutes. Keeping that foil snug traps all the steam and flavor, allowing the rice to cook perfectly and the chicken to soak up every drop of creamy goodness.

Step 5: Uncover, Rest, and Serve

After the baking time is up, carefully remove the foil (watch out for hot steam!). Check that the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, then let it rest for about 5 minutes so the flavors can settle. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like — it’s the crowning jewel to this gorgeous casserole!

How to Serve No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables

No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A little garnish takes this homestyle meal from comforting to company-worthy in seconds. Chopped fresh parsley or even a scattering of thinly sliced green onions on top highlights the vibrant veggies and adds a welcome note of freshness against the creamy richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables truly stands on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, warm crusty bread, or a plate of simply roasted green beans or asparagus. These sides add a little crunch and brightness, rounding out the meal without overpowering the casserole’s flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re thinking of giving this dish a little extra flair, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner-party vibe, or present it family-style in a colorful baking dish at the center of your table. For a more festive look, add a few halved cherry tomatoes or extra steamed veggies on the side. This casserole adapts beautifully to nearly any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Once the No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables cools to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it’ll keep deliciously moist and flavorful for up to 3 days. It makes a cozy, grab-and-go lunch or an effortless repeat dinner.

Freezing

This casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeks because it freezes like a dream. Simply assemble and bake as usual, let it cool completely, then wrap portions tightly before placing them in the freezer. When properly sealed, it will stay fresh for up to 2 months — just remember to label with the date for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until heated through (about 20 to 25 minutes, covered). For microwave reheating, use medium power and cover the dish to keep the rice from drying out. Add a splash of broth to revive that signature creaminess if needed!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and extra liquid. You may need to add 15-20 minutes to the baking time and a bit more broth to ensure tender results.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to swap in your favorite frozen or fresh veggies! Chopped green beans, corn, diced mushrooms, or broccoli florets all make tasty additions to No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Look for dairy-free versions of the cream soups or make your own homemade alternatives using plant-based milks and thickeners. The result will still be creamy and comforting.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully here and actually stay juicy and tender. You may want to trim any excess fat, but the baking instructions stay the same.

Why can’t I peek while baking?

The “no-peek” rule is crucial! Keeping the foil tightly sealed traps steam and allows the rice to cook evenly while infusing the chicken with all those wonderful flavors. Any peeking releases heat and moisture, which can lead to unevenly cooked rice.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables yet, there’s truly no better time. Cozy, flavorful, and wonderfully fuss-free, this is the recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Gather your ingredients, trust the “no-peek” process, and get ready to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that everyone around your table will love!

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No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables Recipe

No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This No-Peek Chicken Casserole with Creamy Rice and Vegetables is a comforting one-pan meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken breasts are baked on a bed of creamy rice, peas, and carrots, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the casserole: In the dish, combine rice, soups, broth, peas, carrots, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly.
  3. Add chicken: Place chicken breasts on top, season with paprika, and drizzle with oil or butter.
  4. Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  5. Check and serve: Ensure rice is tender and chicken is cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Do not lift the foil while baking.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts.
  • Additional vegetables like mushrooms or green beans can be added for variety.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 980 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

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