Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Why Make This Recipe

The aroma of a delicious casserole wafting through your home can be one of the most comforting experiences. Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a classic dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. This recipe is not only easy to make but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With creamy soups, tender chicken, and flavorful rice, this dish is a great way to feed a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Moreover, the flexibility of the ingredients allows you to customize it according to your family’s tastes. You can add in vegetables, use different types of cheese, or even substitute the chicken with another protein. The best part? This dish is baked in one pot, which means minimal cleanup is required!

So, whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day, or a dish to impress your family at the dinner table, Forgotten Chicken and Rice ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful and fulfilling casserole.

How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Making Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Here is a comprehensive look at what you will need, including ingredients and step-by-step directions.

Ingredients

Gather 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

Directions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Forgotten Chicken and Rice:

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.

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.

3. Pour into the Baking Dish: Transfer the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.

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.

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.

6. Sprinkle Soup Mix: Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top of the chicken. This adds both seasoning and savory depth.

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 the moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly.

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.

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

10. Let Rest and Serve: Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice

When it comes time to serve, there are several ways to present this dish.

1. Plating: Use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions and place them on individual plates. Ensure each serving contains chicken, rice, and any added vegetables.

2. Garnish: Consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.

3. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.

4. Family Style: If you’re having a family gathering, consider serving the casserole right from the dish on a large dinner table.

How to Store Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Storing leftovers properly can ensure that you enjoy your Forgotten Chicken and Rice for days to come. Here’s how to do it:

• Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for 2-3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, for quick reheating, you can use the microwave.

Tips to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

1. Add More Veggies: If you want to pack in more nutrition, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

2. Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, use that instead. This will save time and add more flavor.

3. Spice it Up: If you like spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.

4. Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Variation (if any)

1. Vegetarian Version: To make this a vegetarian dish, simply replace the chicken with additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of the soups.

2. Different Proteins: You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option.

3. Cheesy Broccoli Variation: Add steamed broccoli into the casserole mix to create a cheesy broccoli chicken and rice meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

A1: Yes, you can use regular rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and possibly the amount of water used. Regular rice usually requires more liquid and longer cooking times.

Q2: Is it necessary to cover the casserole while it bakes?

A2: Yes, covering the casserole is essential as it traps moisture and helps cook the rice evenly, making for a creamier dish.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A3: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and cover it before baking. Keep it in the fridge for a day and bake it when ready to serve. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Enjoy making Forgotten Chicken and Rice, and delight in the heartwarming comfort it brings to your dinner table!

Forgotten Chicken and Rice

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting and easy casserole combining chicken, rice, and creamy soups, 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 (to stretch the protein)
• Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked rice. Stir until well mixed.
3. Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
4. Add frozen vegetables or cheese if desired.
5. Place the raw chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
6. Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the chicken.
7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes without lifting the foil.
8. After 1 hour, remove the foil and check the chicken for doneness.
9. If desired, broil for 3–5 minutes for a golden top.
10. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Consider adding herbs for garnish or serving with a simple side salad or bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken and rice, family dinner, comfort food, easy recipe