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No Peek Chicken

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Dive into Comfort with No Peek Chicken Casserole

Are you craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than No Peek Chicken Casserole! This classic dish is a staple in many households, loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy sauces, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will leave you coming back for more. Join us as we explore this timeless recipe, including variations, keto and low-carb options, and helpful cook notes.

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Ingredients:

  • Cooking spray
  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (15 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (15 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ yellow onion, chopped
  • ½ red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 1 ½ teaspoons all-purpose seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Rice Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, chopped fresh oregano, and all-purpose seasoning. Mix well to combine.
  3. Add the Chicken Thighs:
    • Place the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish. Pour the rice mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid.
  4. Cover and Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Avoid peeking during the baking process to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to cook properly.
  5. Check for Doneness:
    • After 1 hour and 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and check to ensure that the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender. If needed, return the dish to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once fully cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting dish!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Use Different Proteins: Feel free to swap out the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken drumsticks, depending on your preference.
  • Add Vegetables: Customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables, such as diced carrots, peas, or broccoli, for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to suit your taste preferences. Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. However, keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use different types of cream soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any cream soup varieties you prefer, such as cream of celery, cream of broccoli, or cream of potato, for added variety and flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, replace the white rice with cauliflower rice and use keto-friendly cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups. Additionally, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to keep the dish low in carbs.

Low-Carb Version: Follow the same substitutions as the keto version, and be sure to use low-carb chicken broth and all-purpose seasoning without added sugars or starches.

In conclusion, No Peek Chicken Casserole is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck party, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit. With its simple preparation, flavorful ingredients, and satisfying taste, it’s a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the warm and comforting flavors of this classic casserole tonight!