Introduction
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a simple, hands-off comfort food dish that is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners. This recipe gets its name because it requires minimal prep and no babysitting—you mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and “forget” about it while it cooks. The result? Tender, juicy chicken and creamy, flavorful rice in a delicious, one-pan meal.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a classic Southern and Midwestern American casserole-style dish, popular for its convenience and heartiness. It is often made with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, a staple in many traditional comfort food recipes. This dish has been passed down through generations as an easy, affordable, and satisfying meal, making it a beloved part of home cooking culture.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Vegetables – Add frozen peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Different Protein – Swap chicken for pork chops or turkey cutlets.
- Extra Seasoning – A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a little heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade – Stir in extra cheese for a richer dish.
- Crunchy Topping – Add crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions before baking.
Tips for Success
- Use long-grain white rice: It absorbs the liquid well and doesn’t get mushy. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice.
- Don’t skip the onion soup mix: It adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Check for doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
- Cover tightly with foil: This helps the rice cook properly by trapping steam.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps everything set.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix the rice and soups: In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Season: Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top.
- Cover and bake: Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Check and finish: Remove foil, check that the rice is fully cooked and chicken is tender. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes until melted.
- Garnish and serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Description
This dish is comfort food at its best—juicy, well-seasoned chicken baked over a bed of creamy, flavorful rice. The combination of soups and broth creates a rich, savory sauce that keeps the chicken moist while ensuring the rice is perfectly tender. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal meal for family dinners and meal prep.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fats: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: High (due to soups and seasoning mix—consider low-sodium options)
Conclusion
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a timeless, effortless meal that provides big flavor with minimal work. It’s perfect for nights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is also great for meal prepping, as it reheats well and can be made in advance.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with:
- A fresh green salad for balance.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Buttery garlic bread for extra indulgence.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish a little healthier, try these modifications:
- Use brown rice for extra fiber (increase baking time by 15-20 minutes).
- Choose low-sodium soups and broth to control salt levels.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a creamy but lighter texture.
- Use skinless chicken thighs for more flavor with less dryness.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
By making these small tweaks, you can enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that fits a balanced diet.
Would you like a slow cooker version of this recipe as well?