If you’re searching for a comforting, no-fuss meal that always brings everyone to the table, you have to try the Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe. This dish is a nostalgic gem that combines tender chicken breasts baked atop a creamy, flavorful rice base, all in one simple casserole. The magic lies in its “forgotten” nature: once it’s in the oven, you don’t need to lift a finger until dinner is ready. Creamy soups and a dry onion soup mix meld together to create a luscious coating that keeps the chicken juicy and infuses the rice with incredible flavor. Trust me, this recipe has a way of turning an ordinary weeknight dinner into something truly special and easy to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is all it takes to create layers of flavor and texture in this delightful dish. Each component plays a role, from the creamy soups that add richness to the chicken broth that moistens the rice perfectly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy after baking under the foil.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs all the savory goodness and becomes perfectly fluffy.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy, comforting base flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Brings earthiness and extra creaminess to balance the dish.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) water or chicken broth: Hydrates the rice and keeps the whole casserole moist and tender.
- 1 envelope dry onion soup mix: Sprinkled on top, it creates an irresistible savory crust on the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of freshness and color before serving.
How to Make Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rice
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get it nice and hot. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks during the long bake. Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the dish—this bed of rice is where the magic begins, soaking up all those rich flavors later on.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Soup Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and your chosen liquid—either water or chicken broth works beautifully. Stir until smooth to create a luscious sauce that will infuse the rice and chicken with amazing flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Layer the Ingredients
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the bed of rice and gently stir just a bit to distribute it evenly. Then, carefully place the chicken breasts on top of this mixture. This layering ensures the chicken bakes right on the rice, letting all those delicious juices meld together.
Step 4: Season and Cover
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts to create that signature savory crust that everyone loves. Season lightly with salt and pepper if you like. Cover the entire dish tightly with aluminum foil — this step is crucial because it locks in moisture and captures all the flavors as the dish bakes.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Bake your casserole for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Resist the temptation to peek while it cooks; the sealed environment is what creates the perfectly cooked, tender chicken and fluffy rice. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This short rest allows everything to set beautifully.
How to Serve Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and a lovely contrast to the creamy rich dish. It’s an easy way to make your meal look as good as it tastes while adding a bit of fresh flavor to each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness and crunch of greens balance the creamy texture and create a well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving this Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a personalized touch. Another fun idea is to layer in some sautéed mushrooms or frozen peas before baking to add color and extra flavor. This casserole also looks inviting plated with a drizzle of pan juices or a dollop of sour cream for an indulgent flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, cool any leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days, and you’ll have a convenient and delicious lunch or dinner ready to go.
Freezing
If you want to save a portion for later, this recipe freezes well. Pack cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and store up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture in, or use the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying out. Either way, the creamy rice and tender chicken will come back just as inviting as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice is heartier and takes longer to cook, so if you try it, expect to increase the baking time and add extra liquid. For the perfect texture without extra fuss, the recipe works best with long grain white rice.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream soups and use broth instead of water to keep the flavors intact. Just make sure the soups you pick are suitable for your dietary needs to maintain that creamy consistency.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, or diced carrots make fantastic additions layered in before baking. They add color, nutrition, and wonderful flavor to your Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe.
What if I don’t have dry onion soup mix?
You can replace it with a mix of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs. This DIY blend will still give a savory punch to your chicken topping.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The bake time should ensure tender, cooked-through chicken, but if you want to be certain, the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The rice will also be tender and flavorful, signaling the dish is ready.
Final Thoughts
This Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe has a way of stealing the show at any dinner table with its effortless preparation and delicious results. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, it’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling cozy and content. So don’t hesitate—try it soon and discover why this “forgotten” gem deserves a special place in your recipe collection!
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Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a comforting American casserole featuring tender baked chicken breasts nestled on a bed of creamy, flavorful rice cooked with a blend of cream of chicken and mushroom soups, seasoned with onion soup mix. This no-peek, easy-to-prepare dish ensures juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice in a one-dish meal ideal for a family-friendly main course.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
Soup Mixture
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) water or chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 envelope dry onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Rice: Spread the uncooked long grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a uniform layer.
- Mix Soups and Liquid: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water or chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Mixture Over Rice: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the rice in the baking dish. Gently stir to distribute the liquid and rice mixture evenly but avoid disturbing the rice layer too much.
- Add Chicken: Place the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice and soup mixture, spacing them evenly.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture inside. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the foil and allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to let the flavors settle. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Do not peek while baking—keeping the dish tightly covered ensures the chicken stays moist and the rice cooks perfectly.
- You may add sliced mushrooms or frozen peas to the mixture before baking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer taste.
