Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Published: February 2, 2026

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Just mix everything in one dish and let the oven do the work.
Flavorful: The combination of cream soups and onion soup mix creates a savory depth that enhances the chicken and rice.
Versatile: Customize with your choice of vegetables or cheeses for extra nutrition and taste.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable ingredients, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
Quick Cleanup: With only one baking dish needed, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make preparation quicker and easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13 inch casserole dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

Casserole Dish: A 9×13 inch size allows for even cooking and ample space for all ingredients.
Mixing Bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining all components before baking, ensuring even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

To make Forgotten Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Rice Base

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups instant rice (white or brown)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) water (use the empty soup can for measurement)
1 envelope onion soup mix

For Greasing and Topping

1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup diced cooked chicken (to stretch the protein)
Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor

How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Pour into the Baking Dish

Transfer the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)

Stir in frozen vegetables or shredded cheese if desired. These add-ins can elevate the dish and make it more substantial.

Step 5: 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.

Step 6: Sprinkle Soup Mix

Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top of the chicken. This adds both seasoning and savory depth.

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Do not lift the foil during baking—this traps moisture and ensures even cooking.

Step 8: 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.

Step 9: Optional Broil

For a golden top, broil the casserole uncovered for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 10: Let Rest and Serve

Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set up nicely, making it easier to serve.

Enjoy your delicious Forgotten Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a crisp contrast.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the casserole well.

Add Bread Options

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread serves as a delightful side to soak up any extra sauce.
Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for mopping up the savory flavors of the dish.

Include Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a pop of color and nutrition.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets provide a healthy crunch and balance the meal.

Serve with Sauces

Hot Sauce: A drizzle of hot sauce can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
Barbecue Sauce: For a smoky flavor, offer barbecue sauce on the side.

How to Perfect Forgotten Chicken and Rice

To elevate your Forgotten Chicken and Rice, consider these simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

Bold Seasoning: Use spices like paprika or garlic powder to add depth to your dish.
Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality soups and fresh vegetables for better taste.
Even Cooking: Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized or butterflied for consistent cooking.
Moisture Control: Avoid lifting the foil during baking to keep moisture locked in, ensuring tender rice.
Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit after baking; this helps in setting flavors and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Forgotten Chicken and Rice pairs wonderfully with various sides that can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a rich pairing.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the casserole’s creaminess.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness to your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that complements chicken well when roasted until crispy.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a nutritious balance to your meal.
Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm dip served with tortilla chips can be an excellent appetizer before digging into the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Forgotten Chicken and Rice even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the baking dish can cause your casserole to stick. Always grease with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy serving.
Overcrowding with Ingredients: Adding too many vegetables can overwhelm the dish and prevent proper cooking. Stick to 1–2 cups of mixed veggies for best results.
Not Checking Chicken Temperature: Failing to check the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole right away can lead to a soupy mess. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes for better texture.
Using Non-Instant Rice: Instant rice is designed for this recipe’s cooking time. Using regular rice may leave it undercooked and chewy.
Lifting the Foil While Baking: Peeking at your casserole during baking lets moisture escape, affecting the final dish. Keep it covered until it’s time to check for doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake until heated through (about 25-30 minutes).
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Forgotten Chicken and Rice.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice. However, adjust cooking time as brown rice requires longer cooking than instant white rice.

How do I customize my Forgotten Chicken and Rice?

Feel free to add different vegetables or swap out seasonings according to your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade creamy sauce using broth and a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.

Can I add more protein?

Absolutely! Adding diced cooked turkey or beef can increase protein content while enhancing flavor.

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?

Stick to instant rice and avoid adding too much liquid beyond what’s specified in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

The Forgotten Chicken and Rice recipe is an easy and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. You can customize it with different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give this comforting casserole a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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