There’s something truly special about the way Forgotten Chicken and Rice fills your kitchen with its irresistible aroma, transporting you to cozy family meals and peaceful evenings at home. This dish is a warm embrace on a plate, with tender chicken melding perfectly with creamy rice, and a hint of cheese that dances across your taste buds. It’s wonderfully indulgent, and I can’t help but whip it up during those busy weekday nights when I crave comfort but don’t have hours to spare.
Perfect for those nights when time feels short, this dish comes together surprisingly fast and requires very little fuss. Whether I’m hosting friends for a casual dinner or simply enjoying a meal with my family, Forgotten Chicken and Rice is my go-to recipe. Plus, the leftovers are just as delightful—if there happen to be any!
WHY I LOVE FORGOTTEN CHICKEN AND RICE
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is one of those true winners at my table that hits that sweet spot of ease and flavor. It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, featuring a wonderful blend of savory creaminess and the gentle crunch of perfectly cooked veggies. Just toss everything together, and let the oven do the work! I find that it’s versatile enough to impress guests while also being a staple I can effortlessly prepare for my busy family.
FORGOTTEN CHICKEN AND RICE INGREDIENTS
The magic of this dish truly lies in its simple yet harmonious ingredients. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 lb (450g) BONLESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS: These are the stars! They bake up juicy and flavorful as they nestle on top of creamy rice.
- 2 CUPS INSTANT RICE (WHITE OR BROWN): This speedy grain cooks perfectly in the oven and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 CAN (10.5 OZ) CREAM OF CHICKEN SOUP: This adds richness and a lovely creaminess that keeps everything moist.
- 1 CAN (10.5 OZ) CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP: A great counterpart to the chicken soup, it contributes depth and earthiness.
- 1 CAN (10.5 OZ) WATER: Use the empty soup can for measurement—it’s the perfect way to get just the right amount.
- 1 ENVELOPE ONION SOUP MIX: This little gem packs a mighty punch of flavor and seasonings that elevate the entire dish!
- 1 TABLESPOON BUTTER (FOR GREASING): A simple but essential step, ensuring nothing sticks to your casserole dish.
- 1 CUP SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE: Because who can resist that melty, gooey goodness?
- 1–2 CUPS FROZEN MIXED VEGETABLES: These colorful morsels bring extra nutrition and vibrancy without any hassle.
- 1 CUP DICED COOKED CHICKEN (OPTIONAL): To stretch the protein and add even more heartiness.
- DASH OF BLACK PEPPER, GARLIC POWDER, OR PAPRIKA: These subtle enhancements bring a delightful kick and depth to the palate.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you don’t have something on hand, here are some great alternatives:
- Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs for a richer flavor (a bit of extra fat is always welcome!).
- Instead of cream of chicken or mushroom soups, try cream of celery or broccoli for a lighter twist.
- For more veggies, toss in some fresh spinach or broccoli, but you might need to reduce the cooking time slightly since they don’t take as long to cook.
- In a pinch, quinoa can be used instead of rice, but be sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Aluminum foil
- Spoon for mixing
- Sharp knife for butterflying chicken (if needed)
HOW TO MAKE FORGOTTEN CHICKEN AND RICE
Let’s dive into creating this incredibly comforting Forgotten Chicken and Rice. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a bubbling, creamy casserole with perfectly cooked chicken that simply melts in your mouth.
Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking. You want that irresistible creamy goodness without any drama when serving.
Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well until evenly mixed. This creamy concoction is going to be the heart of your dish, providing that luxurious texture!
Pour Into the Baking Dish
Transfer the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Make sure it’s smoothed out nicely; this will make for an even cooking process.
Elevate with Optional Ingredients
Stir in frozen vegetables or shredded cheese if desired. These add-ins can elevate the dish and make it more substantial, not to mention colorful and inviting!
Top with Chicken
Place the raw chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. If they’re particularly thick, consider butterflying them for even cooking. This ensures they’re tender and cooked through at the same time as the rice.
Season for Flavor
Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top of the chicken. This simple step is key to adding that savory depth that makes the dish so special.
Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Do not lift the foil during baking—this traps the moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly. Patience is key here!
Check for Doneness
After 1 hour, remove the foil. The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C), and the rice should be tender and creamy. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Optional Broil for Golden Perfection
For a golden top, broil the casserole uncovered for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned. Just keep an eye on it—they can go from perfection to burnt in no time.
Let Rest and Serve
Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to serve. Grab a spoon and dive in!
HOW TO STORE FORGOTTEN CHICKEN AND RICE
This casserole stores remarkably well! At room temperature, it can last about two hours, but I recommend getting it into the fridge as soon as possible. In an airtight container, it will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for a rainy day, freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients when possible; they make a difference in flavor.
- Don’t lift the foil while baking to keep all that moisture in.
- Let it rest before serving; it’s worth the wait for the flavors to meld.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last creamy bite.
- A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea makes for a delightful accompaniment.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction before serving.
I hope you enjoy making Forgotten Chicken and Rice as much as I do! It’s a dish that embodies comfort and satisfaction, perfect for any night of the week. Happy cooking!
