Forgotten Chicken and Rice

why make this recipe

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a fantastic dish for busy cooks. It’s easy to prepare and only requires a few ingredients. You can set it in the oven and forget about it while it cooks. This recipe is comforting, filling, and perfect for a family meal. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite veggies or seasonings!

how to make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

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:

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

Serve it warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also add extra cheese on top before serving for extra creaminess.

how to store Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake until warmed through.

tips to make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

• Make sure to grease the dish well to avoid sticking.
• Feel free to use any leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking with additional herbs or spices.

variation

You can switch out the cream of chicken and mushroom soups with other flavors, like cream of celery or cheddar soup, for a different taste. Also, feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots based on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?
No, it’s best to use instant rice for this recipe since it cooks quickly and pairs well with the baking time.

2. Can I freeze Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake it from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use brown rice instead of white, add more vegetables, and use low-fat soup options. You can also consider reducing the cheese for fewer calories.

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