When life gets hectic, nothing beats an easy, no-fuss meal that still delivers incredible flavor. Amazing Forgotten Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, rice, and a savory onion-seasoned sauce. The name comes from its effortless preparation: just mix, cover, and bake! You can literally “forget” about it while it cooks, making it perfect for busy families, weeknight dinners, or potluck gatherings.

This classic dish has been a favorite for generations, passed down through families and featured in church cookbooks. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy rice, and rich onion soup flavor makes it a timeless, satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and hassle-free, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Forgotten Chicken Recipe

Hands-Off Cooking – A true “set-it-and-forget-it” meal with minimal effort.
One-Pan Recipe – Less cleanup, more convenience!

Incredibly Flavorful – The onion soup mix adds rich, savory depth.
Perfect for Busy Nights – Only 5 minutes of prep before it goes into the oven.
Feeds a Crowd – A great option for family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken & Rice:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy when baked.
1 cup long grain rice (uncooked) – Absorbs all the flavorful juices while cooking.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Makes the rice rich and creamy.

1 ½ cups water – Ensures the rice cooks properly.
1 packet dry onion soup mix – The key ingredient for that classic, savory taste.

Optional Additions:

½ cup sour cream – Adds extra creaminess.

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – For a cheesy twist.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a hint of smokiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.

Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and water. Stir until smooth.
Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and rice.

Step 4: Season & Bake

Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the moisture.
Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not remove the foil while baking!

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once done, remove the foil and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to fully absorb the flavors. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Forgotten Chicken

Don’t Peek! – Keeping the foil on ensures the rice cooks perfectly.

Use Long Grain Rice – It absorbs liquid better than instant or short-grain rice.
Try Different Soups – Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
Season to Taste – Add extra garlic powder, black pepper, or paprika for more flavor.

Make It Creamier – Stir in ½ cup sour cream before serving for a richer dish.

Variations & Customizations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

1. Make It Cheesy

Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture before baking.

Sprinkle extra cheese on top in the last 15 minutes of baking.

2. Add More Vegetables

Mix in ½ cup frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Sauté mushrooms and add them to the rice for extra flavor.

3. Try Different Proteins

Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more juiciness.
Use pork chops instead of chicken for a different take.

4. Turn It into a Slow Cooker Meal

Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Forgotten Chicken is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

1. Classic Side Dishes

Steamed Green Beans – A simple, healthy side.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a bit of crunch.
Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob – Sweet and buttery perfection.

2. Bread Options

Buttery Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Homemade Cornbread – A Southern-style pairing.

3. Light & Fresh Options

Crisp Garden Salad – A refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
Cucumber & Tomato Salad – Adds a burst of freshness.

How to Store & Reheat Forgotten Chicken

This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

Refrigeration:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant rice?

No, instant rice will become mushy. Use long-grain rice for best results.

2. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

Try cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or homemade white sauce as a substitute.

4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.

5. What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?

If the rice is still firm, add ¼ cup hot water, cover, and bake for 10 more minutes.

Final Thoughts

Amazing Forgotten Chicken is the perfect dish for busy nights, meal prep, or when you want comfort food without the fuss. With its creamy, savory flavor and tender chicken, it’s no surprise this recipe has been loved for generations.

Try it once, and it will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this effortless, delicious meal with your family and friends!

Amazing Forgotten Chicken

Author: Diana Carrozza

Print Recipe

Description

This simple and delicious Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a one-pan meal that’s as effortless as it is flavorful! Tender chicken breasts bake with uncooked rice in a creamy, savory sauce made from cream of chicken soup and onion soup mix. Just pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic while you relax!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup long grain rice, uncooked

1 packet dry onion soup mix

1 1/2 cups water

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large greased baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom.

Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice.

In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and water until smooth. Pour the mixture over the chicken and rice.

Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not remove the foil during baking.

Serve hot, letting the chicken and rice absorb the flavors.

Notes

Rice Options: Long-grain rice works best, but you can try other varieties like jasmine or basmati, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Chicken Substitutes: Bone-in chicken breasts or thighs can be used, though cooking time may vary slightly.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of paprika for extra flavor in the sauce.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.