Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that combines simplicity and flavor for a delightful dinner experience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion when you need a comforting meal without the fuss. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, Forgotten Chicken and Rice will quickly become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can pop this dish in the oven and forget about it until it’s time to eat.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of creamy soups and savory onion soup mix creates a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken and rice.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients or add vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves 8, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks without requiring extra effort.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes after your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make Forgotten Chicken and Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Spoon for mixing
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for ensuring even cooking of all ingredients while also providing enough space for serving.
- Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
- Aluminum foil: Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and tender.
Ingredients
Forgotten Chicken – the crazy easy one-pan meal that’s going to become your new weeknight feast MVP.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
For the Rice Mixture
- 2 cups Minute rice (white or brown)
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 10.5 oz can water
For Flavoring
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Grease the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13 baking pan with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and rice.
- Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Pour the rice and soup mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the mixture in an even layer.
Step 4: Add Flavor
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1 ½ hours until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping
- If desired, uncover during the last 10 minutes of baking and top with shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 7: Serve
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve directly from the baking pan for a cozy dining experience.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Forgotten Chicken and Rice!
How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Serving Forgotten Chicken and Rice is simple and satisfying. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great option for any weeknight dinner.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your dish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh flavor boost.
Pair with Steamed Vegetables
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious and colorful plate.
Add a Side Salad
- A crisp garden salad can balance the creamy chicken and rice, adding crunch and freshness.
Drizzle with Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy some heat, a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors wonderfully.
Offer Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of lemon over the dish can brighten up the flavors, making each bite refreshing.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A slice of warm bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness of this meal.
How to Perfect Forgotten Chicken and Rice
To ensure your Forgotten Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality soups make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the pan tightly with foil helps retain moisture, ensuring juicy chicken.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If using larger chicken breasts, you may need to extend cooking time slightly.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes after baking enhances flavor melding before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Complementing your Forgotten Chicken and Rice with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce while adding robust flavor.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the richness of chicken and rice.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the creamy dish.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness to balance out the meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful pairing that kids love.
- Mashed Potatoes: An extra layer of comfort food that can soak up any leftover sauce.
- Grilled Asparagus: Adds a gourmet touch while contributing vibrant color.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors in chicken and rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Forgotten Chicken and Rice can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results:
- Skipping the foil cover: Not covering the pan tightly can lead to dry chicken and undercooked rice. Always cover your pan securely before baking.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold chicken or rice can affect cooking times and texture. Let your ingredients sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Neglecting the resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause juices to escape, resulting in dryness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Ignoring cooking times: Every oven is different. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and doneness.
- Overlooking seasoning: The dish may taste bland if you skip seasoning steps. Be generous with seasoning, especially the Lipton onion soup mix, for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed throughout.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Forgotten Chicken and Rice that can help clarify any uncertainties.
What is Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a one-pan meal where chicken is baked on top of seasoned rice in a creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just extend the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes. Ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.
How do I customize Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
You can add vegetables like peas or carrots during baking or try different soup flavors. This recipe is versatile to fit your taste preferences!
What should I serve with Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is an incredible meal option that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. We encourage you to give it a try; you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken with creamy rice in a savory sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this easy chicken casserole is perfect for those who want a hearty meal without the hassle. Simply assemble your ingredients in a baking dish, pop it into the oven, and let it cook while you take care of other tasks. This versatile dish serves 8 and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Minute rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking pan with butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and rice; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and place chicken breasts on top.
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 to 1½ hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Optionally uncover during the last 10 minutes to add cheese if desired.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
