The No-Peek Chicken Casserole is all about ease and comfort. The aroma of chicken, garlic, and onions fills the air as this delightful meal bakes away in the oven. You might even find yourself peeking through the oven door despite the name—because it smells that good!
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No-Peek Chicken Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
No-Peek Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rice
- 300 g 10 oz cream of chicken soup (or bechamel cream sauce)
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 2 chicken breasts sliced lengthwise
- 2 teaspoon chicken seasoning
- 90 g 3 oz cream cheese
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
- In a large pan, heat up some olive oil and saute onions for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.1 medium white onion, 3 garlic cloves
- Mix in cream cheese, bechamel sauce (or cream of chicken soup as a fuss-free option), pour in chicken stock and whisk well. Bring to a boil.300 g 10 oz cream of chicken soup (or bechamel cream sauce), 2 ½ cups chicken stock, 90 g 3 oz cream cheese
- Season chicken with salt and chicken seasoning blend.2 teaspoon chicken seasoning, 2 chicken breasts
- Pour rice into a large casserole dish, top with chicken pieces and pour chicken stock mixture on top.1 ½ cups rice
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rice
- 300 g (10 oz) cream of chicken soup (or bechamel cream sauce)
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
- 2 teaspoon chicken seasoning
- 90 g (3 oz) cream cheese
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
In a large pan, heat up some olive oil and saute onions for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Mix in cream cheese, bechamel sauce (or cream of chicken soup as a fuss-free option), pour in chicken stock and whisk well. Bring to a boil.
Season chicken with salt and chicken seasoning blend.
Pour rice into a large casserole dish, top with chicken pieces and pour chicken stock mixture on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Salad Options
Pair your No-Peek Chicken Casserole with a fresh, crisp salad for a classic and refreshing side. The lightness of the greens perfectly complements the richness of the casserole. Use seasonal vegetables to keep it interesting and nutritious. Add elements like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to enhance the salad's flavor profile.
Roasted Vegetables
Opt for a side of roasted vegetables to add depth and flavor to your meal. Caramelized edges bring out incredible taste nuances that pair beautifully with the casserole. Consider options like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini—whatever your family loves most. Simply drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast alongside your casserole for a no-fuss addition.
Garlic Bread
For a touch of indulgence, serve garlic bread on the side. The crispy, buttery bread is ideal for soaking up the casserole's creamy sauce and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. If you're mindful of carb intake, consider using whole grain bread or a healthier alternative like cauliflower bread to keep it delicious and balanced.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Marinate for Flavor
A successful No-Peek Chicken Casserole hinges on layers of flavor. Marinating the chicken before cooking can elevate this dish significantly. Although it adds a bit more time to your preparation, the result is worth it. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs infuses the chicken with additional flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Perfect Rice Texture
For those who prefer a firmer rice texture, consider reducing the amount of chicken stock slightly or decreasing the cooking time by five minutes. This adjustment allows the rice to maintain a slight bite while still absorbing enough flavor from the chicken and spices.
Enhance Creaminess
If you desire a richer, creamier casserole, add a bit more cream cheese to the sauce. This addition will enhance the dish's creaminess and provide a more luxurious mouthfeel. Ensure you whisk it well with the other sauce ingredients to achieve an evenly combined and smooth texture before pouring it over the chicken and rice.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative if you're aiming for a healthier version of the No-Peek Chicken Casserole. However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Also, you might require a bit more chicken stock as brown rice absorbs more liquid than white rice.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking to make a healthier version or simply don't have cream of chicken soup on hand, a bechamel cream sauce is an excellent substitute. It's relatively easy to make and adds a homemade touch to the casserole. Just whisk together butter, flour, and milk, and season to taste before adding it to your casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, the No-Peek Chicken Casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until it's warmed through.
How can I add more flavor to the casserole?
If you're looking to boost the flavor profile of your No-Peek Chicken Casserole, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix. These vegetables can bring additional richness and a hint of sweetness to the dish. Additionally, incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne pepper can give it a subtle kick. Finally, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled on top before serving can add both flavor and a pop of color.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Certainly! To create a vegetarian version of the No-Peek Chicken Casserole, substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite meat substitute. You can also enhance the dish by adding more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to increase its nutritional value. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and make sure your other ingredients fit into your vegetarian lifestyle.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, preparing the casserole in advance is a great option for busy days. Assemble the dish as per the instructions, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When it's time to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated all the way through.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If this recipe has whetted your appetite for casseroles, you're in luck! There are countless variations and flavors to explore. From vegetarian options packed with colorful veggies to cheesy delights that are perfect for a cozy night in, casseroles offer versatility and comfort like no other dish. Check out these amazing chicken casserole dishes to get you started:
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