If you’re looking to rediscover a classic comfort food that almost feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts baked atop a creamy, flavorful rice base infused with savory soups and a touch of onion seasoning. It’s the kind of recipe that’s simple to prepare and even easier to love, especially when you want a hearty, no-fuss meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in crafting a balanced dish full of flavor, texture, and appetizing colors. From the creamy soups that make the rice delightfully moist to the savory onion soup mix that adds a punch of depth, these components come together harmoniously without any complicated prep.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, easy to cook and perfect for soaking up the surrounding flavors.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Provides a fluffy, tender base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess for a comforting texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings subtle earthiness and depth to the rice mixture.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Hydrates the rice and thins out the soup for perfect consistency; chicken broth is a tasty alternative.
- 1 envelope dry onion soup mix: Sprinkled over the chicken, it’s the secret weapon that boosts flavor effortlessly.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): Dotting the top to add a golden finish and extra richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to highlight the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A splash of color and fresh herbaceous note when serving.
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Mix the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size gives the rice enough room to cook evenly without crowding the chicken. In the dish itself, combine the uncooked rice with the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Stir them together thoroughly until everything is fully blended, creating the creamy base that will cook into tender rice.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Season
Next, place your chicken breasts on top of that creamy rice mixture. This layering is what makes this recipe ‘forgotten’—once it’s assembled, you don’t need to stir or fuss over it! Evenly sprinkle the envelope of dry onion soup mix over the chicken to inject a burst of flavor that complements the mildness of the chicken and the richness of the rice.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cover for Baking
If you’re opting for a touch of extra richness, dot the chicken breasts with butter. Then, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step traps steam, helping the rice cook perfectly and keeping the chicken juicy throughout the 1 hour and 30 minutes baking time.
Step 4: Bake and Rest
Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for one and a half hours. The rice will absorb the flavorful liquids while the chicken reaches a tender, fully cooked state. Once the timer goes off, remove the foil and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to settle and makes the dish easier to serve beautifully.
How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped parsley as a garnish is a simple yet effective way to brighten up the dish visually and add a subtle fresh herb note. The contrast of green on top of the creamy chicken and rice makes it look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This meal stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables can add nice texture contrast and color to your plate. Roasted carrots or a medley of sautéed green beans also complement the creamy chicken and rice beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you could serve the chicken and rice in individual ramekins, making it feel extra special and personalized. Another idea is to sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty, golden crust that changes the flavor profile just enough to keep things exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool before transferring them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish as well! Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the rice can be a bit softer when thawed, but the flavor remains just as satisfying.
Reheating
When ready to eat leftovers, reheat gently in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of water or broth to the rice before reheating to restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Covering the dish while reheating helps maintain that cozy creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and offer a richer flavor, making them a great substitute. Just ensure they are bone-in or boneless to match your preference and adjust the cooking time slightly if using bone-in.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you carefully select gluten-free cream soups and onion soup mix. Always check labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients, especially in commercially prepared soups.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding veggies like peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers before baking can enhance both nutrition and color. Just keep portions moderate so the rice still cooks evenly.
Do I have to use both cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups?
Using both creates a wonderful depth of flavor and creaminess, but you can substitute one or use just one type if preferred. The dish will still be delicious and comforting either way.
Why is it called the Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe?
It earns its name because you basically ‘set it and forget it’ in the oven without the need to stir or watch over it, making your time in the kitchen easier and less hands-on.
Final Thoughts
This Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves uncomplicated meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or comfort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a meal with tender chicken and creamy rice baked to perfection. Give it a try—you might find yourself turning to this nostalgic dish again and again, sharing it as one of your own favorite “forgotten” delights.
Print
Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole perfect for busy weeknights. It features tender chicken breasts baked atop a creamy mixture of soups and rice, all cooked together in one dish with minimal prep and no stirring required. The dish is flavorful, hearty, and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 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 water
- 1 envelope dry onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Rice Mixture: In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Add Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture evenly. Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the chicken and rice mixture for added flavor.
- Optional Butter: Dot the top of the chicken with small pieces of butter if you want a richer flavor and slightly crisp finish.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, then bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts if preferred for juicier meat.
- For enhanced flavor, replace water with chicken broth in the mixture.
- This dish is called “forgotten” because you assemble it and bake without stirring or checking on it during cooking.
