Name: Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs; 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 to measure); 1 envelope onion soup mix; 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing; Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese; Optional: Frozen vegetables; Optional: Diced chicken

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish earns its name because once it's in the oven, you can truly "forget" about it until dinnertime. It's made with pantry staples and requires minimal prep—just mix, layer, and bake. The chicken turns juicy and tender, while the rice bakes to creamy perfection. Add-ins like cheese or vegetables offer an easy way to customize it to your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb (450g) bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs
• 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 to measure)
• 1 envelope onion soup mix
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing

Optional Additions:
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Frozen vegetables
• Diced chicken

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and instant rice. Stir until fully blended.
Pour the rice mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Place the chicken pieces, skin-side up, on top of the rice mixture.
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice.
Bake uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking to melt.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheddar or a cheese blend in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey topping.
Veggie Boost: Mix in frozen vegetables such as peas, carrots, or green beans before baking.
Lean Protein Swap: Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce fat content—just cover with foil for part of the baking to avoid drying out.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños on top before baking.
Herb-Infused: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the rice mixture for extra aroma.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist, and heat on medium for 2–3 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use instant rice as specified, and be sure to bake uncovered so excess moisture can evaporate.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Is it necessary to use both soups?

Using both cream of chicken and cream of mushroom gives a richer flavor, but you can use two cans of the same kind if preferred.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What can I use instead of onion soup mix?

Mix dried onion flakes, garlic powder, beef bouillon granules, and a pinch of celery seed for a homemade substitute.

Can I add more rice to make it stretch further?

You can add an extra half cup of rice, but increase the liquid accordingly to maintain texture.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also works well.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant?

No, regular rice won't cook properly in this method. Stick with instant rice for best results.

Conclusion

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a dependable, delicious casserole that's as easy as it is comforting. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it's the perfect go-to for busy nights or lazy weekends. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, and you'll have a family favorite that's sure to stay in rotation.

Forgotten Chicken and Rice

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A nostalgic and comforting casserole, Forgotten Chicken and Rice is an easy one-dish meal featuring tender chicken baked on creamy, flavorful rice. Perfect for busy nights, this hearty dish requires minimal prep and can be customized with cheese or vegetables.

Author: Janet
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and instant rice. Stir until blended.
Pour the rice mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Place chicken pieces, skin-side up, on top of the rice mixture.
Sprinkle onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice.
Bake uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
If using, top with shredded cheddar cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use instant rice to prevent a mushy texture.
Boneless chicken can be used; cover with foil for part of the baking.
Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
Customize with vegetables, spices, or alternative cheeses.

Nutrition

Serving Size: ⅛ of recipe
Calories: 410
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg