Named for its simplicity, Forgotten Chicken is the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. With just a few pantry staples and a hands-off cooking process, this dish bakes to perfection while you focus on other things—making it a true lifesaver for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Prep: Quick assembly means more time to relax.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup and no need for multiple pots or pans.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy rice and tender chicken appeal to all ages.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dish earlier in the day and bake when ready.
Ingredients for Forgotten Chicken
- 2 cups minute rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of celery soup
- 1 can water (use the soup can for measurement)
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs)
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
Chef’s Tip: For extra flavor, try substituting cream of mushroom soup for the cream of celery soup or using bone-in chicken breasts for richer taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
2. Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 2 cups minute rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of celery soup
- 1 can water
- Stir until fully blended and creamy.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle the entire envelope of onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice.
4. Bake the Dish
- Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)) and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the foil and serve the dish hot.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed Veggies: Serve with broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
- Side Salad: A crisp garden or Caesar salad balances the creamy dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy rice.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Keeping the dish tightly covered ensures the rice cooks properly and stays creamy.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check the chicken at 90 minutes; overcooking may dry it out.
- Make It Your Own: Add sautéed mushrooms or frozen peas to the rice mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soups and onion mix if you’re watching your salt intake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 35g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice instead of minute rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time and liquid ratio. Regular rice may require additional broth or water and longer cooking.
What can I use instead of onion soup mix?
You can make a homemade version by mixing dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if chilled.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Forgotten Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe that combines ease and comfort in one dish. With its creamy rice base and tender chicken, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, homemade meal without the hassle.
Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—no one needs to know it only took a few minutes of prep!