Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Are You Ready to Dive into a Comforting Classic?

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is one of those nostalgic recipes that evokes warmth and home-cooked goodness. Just imagine a busy weeknight: you’re juggling tasks, feeling overwhelmed, and need something simple yet satisfying for dinner. This dish is your savory savior, coming together in one casserole with minimal fuss. Its creamy, rich flavors combined with tender chicken and rice create a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s an old-school favorite that seems almost magical—set it and forget it, and before you know it, you’ll have a hearty dinner waiting for you.

Why You’ll Love Making It

So, what sets Forgotten Chicken and Rice apart from other casseroles? For one, it’s incredibly straightforward and uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s quick to assemble and can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Not to mention, it’s a budget-friendly meal ideal for those nights when you want something filling without breaking the bank.

“Absolutely love this recipe! It’s perfect for my family, and I can even stretch it with leftover chicken. My kids always ask for seconds!” – A delighted home cook

Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends, this dish deserves a cherished place at your table. It’s a recipe that offers comfort, satisfaction, and a chance to gather round and enjoy each other’s company.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll follow a few simple steps. The beauty of Forgotten Chicken and Rice is its laid-back nature. You’ll prep some ingredients, layer them in a casserole dish, and let the oven do the work. Let me guide you through the steps to make this unforgettable meal a reality.

What You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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)

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, you can use leftover turkey instead of chicken or choose different types of rice for a health twist.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter to avoid sticking.

2. Prepare the Base Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir until everything is combined well.

3. Pour into the Baking Dish: Transfer this mixture into the greased casserole dish, ensuring it’s spread evenly across the bottom.

4. Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using any frozen vegetables or shredded cheese, mix them in now to elevate your dish.

5. Top with Chicken: Lay the raw chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. If your chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them for more even cooking.

6. Sprinkle Soup Mix: Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the chicken to infuse it with flavor.

7. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for one hour without lifting the foil—this will keep the moisture locked in for perfect rice cooking.

8. Check for Doneness: After one hour, remove the foil. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the rice should be creamy and tender.

9. Optional Broil: If you desire a crispy top, broil the casserole uncovered for 3–5 minutes until it’s lightly browned.

10. Let Rest and Serve: Allow your dish to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This resting time makes it easier to dish out.

Perfect Pairings for Forgotten Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving, this dish is versatile. You can enjoy it as is, letting its creamy goodness be the star of the show. However, consider complementing it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make excellent side options, enhancing the homemade feel of your meal.

Keeping Forgotten Chicken and Rice Fresh Longer

To ensure your leftover Forgotten Chicken and Rice lasts, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions. When reheating, ensure the center is hot (at least 165°F/75°C) before serving. Make sure to follow safe food handling practices, especially if you want to freeze for later.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate their dish even further, consider these tips:

• Chicken Substitutions: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to swap it in to save time and enhance flavor.
• Seasoning: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving adds freshness and color.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: You can use different types of cheese or add extra layers of cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to consider:

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a heated twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with white beans and add mushrooms for a meatless interpretation.
• Flavor Pack: Use different soups like tomato or a cheese-flavored variant for unique tastes.

Your Questions Answered

What’s the prep time for Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Preparation takes about 15–20 minutes, with baking time around an hour.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but note that brown rice may require extra cooking time; add an additional 15 minutes to baking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to three months. Just ensure you allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.

How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider incorporating more vegetables or using low-fat soups to reduce calories while still enjoying its creamy texture.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to craft this Forgotten Chicken and Rice, it’s time to gather your ingredients and let the family enjoy a meal that embodies comfort. Happy cooking!

Forgotten Chicken and Rice

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• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting casserole with tender chicken and rice, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 envelope onion soup mix
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup diced cooked chicken
• Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
4. If using, mix in frozen vegetables and shredded cheese at this stage.
5. Place the raw chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Butterfly the chicken if it’s thick.
6. Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the chicken.
7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for one hour without lifting the foil.
8. After one hour, remove the foil and check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice is creamy.
9. For a crispy top, broil uncovered for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.
10. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability. This dish is perfect for using up leftovers!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: comfort food, casserole, chicken rice, family dinner, quick recipes