When it comes to family meals, simplicity and flavor are the perfect pair. Amazing Forgotten Chicken delivers both with ease. This recipe is a one-dish wonder that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and bold flavors with minimal prep work. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or someone seeking a no-fuss dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. What makes it truly “forgotten” is that you can assemble the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and forget about it until it’s ready. The result? A hearty, comforting meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into the details of this timeless dish, from the simple ingredients to the rich flavors that make it a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- 1 1/2 cups water
These pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying.
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the dish cooks evenly and thoroughly, creating the perfect texture for both the chicken and rice.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a large baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the dish. The rice will cook in the oven, absorbing all the flavors of the chicken and soup.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice. Space them out evenly to ensure every piece is well-cooked and tender.
Step 4: Mix the Soup and Water
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This creamy blend acts as the base for the dish, keeping the chicken moist and the rice flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is well-covered. The liquid will soak into the rice as it bakes, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture.
Step 6: Add the Onion Soup Mix
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the top of the dish. This step is crucial for adding depth of flavor, as the onion soup mix provides a savory, slightly tangy kick that elevates the entire dish.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. This traps in steam, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and the rice cooks evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Resist the urge to check on it during cooking—leaving the foil undisturbed is key to achieving the perfect texture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the baking time is up, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!) and serve the dish hot. The chicken will be tender, the rice creamy and flavorful, and the combination irresistible.
Variations
- Cheesy Forgotten Chicken: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, melty finish.
- Vegetable Additions: Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or green beans with the rice for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Different Soup Base: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cheddar soup for a different flavor profile.
- Seasoned Chicken: Before placing the chicken in the dish, season it with garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
- Herb Topping: Garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or chives for a touch of freshness.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, use long grain rice. Instant or quick-cooking rice may not hold up well during the extended baking time.
- If using thick chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
- The water in the recipe can be replaced with chicken broth for an even richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. For a comforting meal, add warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips
- To save time, assemble the dish earlier in the day and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the cold dish.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the baking time to about 2 hours and increase the water by ½ cup.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes. Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free cream soup and use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Conclusion
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a timeless recipe that lives up to its name—once you assemble it, you can “forget” about it in the oven while it transforms into a hearty, flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory onion soup mix creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a no-fuss meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight and see why it’s called “amazing!”