No-Peek Chicken Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 90 minutes

No Peek Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together chicken, rice, and vegetables for a meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The key to this recipe is the way it locks in moisture, ensuring juicy chicken and flavorful rice without needing to check on it constantly. Once you try it, you'll see why it's a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (1-ounce package) onion soup mix
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano or thyme
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the rice mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the uncooked rice, water, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, onion soup mix, and fresh oregano or thyme. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the prepared rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
4. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken thighs with seasoned salt, ensuring they're evenly coated.
5. Assemble the dish: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish. Make sure the chicken is spread out evenly over the rice.
6. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, ensuring you dont lift the foil during cooking to maintain moisture.
7. Check for doneness: After 1 hour and 30 minutes, check the chickens internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer. It should read at least 165F (74C). If its not quite there, return it to the oven for a little longer.
8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the foil, and serve your No Peek Chicken with the rice mixture. Enjoy a meal full of flavor and comfort!

How to Store Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the rice from drying out.

Can You Freeze No Peek Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze No Peek Chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in an oven preheated to 350F (175C) and bake until the chicken is heated through.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 445
• Fat: 24g
• Carbs: 20g
• Protein: 39g
• Sodium: 1225mg
• Cholesterol: 195mg
• Iron: 3mg
• Calcium: 77mg

Recipe Notes:

This recipe was designed to be both simple and flavorful. The cooking time was adjusted to 1 hour and 30 minutes to ensure the rice cooks perfectly and absorbs all the delicious flavors. We used water instead of chicken broth to keep the dish lighter, and added onion soup mix for extra flavor.

No-Peek Chicken is a classic American casserole that combines chicken, rice, vegetables, and creamy soups into one flavorful, no-fuss meal. The name "No-Peek" comes from the simple instruction to leave the dish covered while baking to ensure that the chicken remains tender and the rice perfectly absorbs all the flavors.

Origin and History of No-Peek Chicken

The No-Peek Chicken recipe originated in the mid-20th century as a convenient, comforting dish for busy families. It became popular in the 1960s when casseroles and one-pan meals were all the rage. The combination of easy-to-find ingredients like chicken, rice, and canned soups made it a quick and reliable dinner choice for working parents. Over the years, this recipe has been adapted in various ways, with different types of soup and seasonings, making it a beloved staple in many American households.

Regional Variations and Customizations

While No-Peek Chicken is most commonly associated with American home cooking, regional variations have emerged. In the Southern United States, its common to see the dish spiced up with cayenne pepper or hot sauce, adding an extra kick to the comforting flavors. Some versions use brown rice instead of white rice, which gives the dish a slightly nuttier flavor and a healthier twist. Additionally, families in the Midwest and South may include additional vegetables, like peas or carrots, for added color and nutrition.

How No-Peek Chicken Differs from Similar Dishes

Though it shares similarities with other chicken and rice casseroles, No-Peek Chicken stands out because of its specific cooking method. The dish is baked covered for a long period, which helps steam the chicken and rice to perfection. This ensures that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the savory flavors from the soups and seasonings. Unlike traditional casseroles, which may require stirring or checking during baking, the No-Peek method eliminates the need to disturb the dish, allowing the ingredients to meld together effortlessly.

Where is No-Peek Chicken Typically Served?

No-Peek Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. Its commonly prepared for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings due to its ease and ability to feed a crowd. The comforting flavors also make it a great option for holiday meals or casual Sunday dinners. Additionally, its simplicity makes it a go-to meal for new cooks or anyone looking for a no-fuss, satisfying dish to prepare in advance.

Fun Facts about No-Peek Chicken

• The "No-Peek" concept was originally intended to help cooks avoid the temptation of opening the oven, which could let steam escape and affect the dishs outcome.
• While the classic recipe calls for cream of chicken and mushroom soups, some people like to get creative and swap in other soups, like cream of celery or cream of onion, for a different flavor profile.
• No-Peek Chicken has been a beloved recipe for generations, with many home cooks adding their own twists, such as using different cuts of chicken, or even switching to quinoa or couscous instead of rice.
• The dish is incredibly customizablesome cooks use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor, while others opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner version.

Conclusion

No-Peek Chicken is more than just a mealit's a comforting tradition that has found its place in kitchens across the United States. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and flavorful results, its no wonder that this casserole continues to be a favorite in American homes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own personal touch, No-Peek Chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.

FAQ about No-Peek Chicken Recipe

Comments