Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe

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Introduction

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a comforting, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This one-dish recipe combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and rich flavors, all baked together to create a hearty meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for an easy, satisfying dinner option. The simplicity of the dish makes it adaptable to suit various tastes, with optional additions like cheese or vegetables for added flair. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious classic.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Chicken: 1 lb (450g) bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs
  • Rice: 2 cups instant rice (white or brown)
  • Cream Soups: 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup + 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • Water: 1 can (10.5 oz), measured using the empty soup can
  • Seasoning: 1 envelope onion soup mix
  • Butter: 1 tbsp, for greasing

Optional Additions

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, or broccoli)
  • Diced chicken (for a meatier version)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to heat evenly, ensuring the dish cooks to perfection.

Step 2: Grease the Baking Dish

Use 1 tablespoon of butter to lightly grease a 9Ă—13-inch baking dish. This prevents the rice and chicken from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Water (measured using the soup can)
  • Instant rice

Stir the mixture until it’s fully combined and smooth. The rice will absorb the liquid as it bakes, creating a creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour the prepared rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Place the chicken pieces, skin-side up, on top of the rice mixture. Ensure the chicken pieces are spaced out for even cooking.

Step 5: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the entire dish, including both the chicken and rice. This seasoning adds depth and a savory flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours. The chicken skin should crisp up beautifully, and the rice should absorb all the liquid. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Optional Topping

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let the cheese melt to create a gooey, cheesy topping.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, making the dish even creamier.

Variations

Vegetable Additions

Add frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli to the rice mixture for extra nutrients and color.

Spicy Twist

Sprinkle a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper over the chicken for a hint of spice.

Cheesy Delight

Mix shredded cheddar cheese directly into the rice mixture for a creamier texture.

Protein Boost

Use diced chicken in addition to bone-in pieces for more meat in each serving.

Cooking Notes

  • Chicken Options: Bone-in, skin-on chicken adds more flavor and keeps the meat juicy. However, you can use boneless, skinless chicken if preferred.
  • Rice Type: Instant rice is recommended for this recipe, but long-grain rice can be used with slight adjustments to liquid and cooking time.
  • Covering: Baking the dish uncovered helps the chicken skin crisp up and prevents the dish from becoming too watery.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
  • Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy rice.
  • Add a side of steamed asparagus or green beans for a touch of freshness.

Tips

  1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking its internal temperature.
  2. Double the Recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd.
  3. Customize the Flavors: Experiment with different cream soups (e.g., cream of celery) or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to Step 4, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 890mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used. However, they may cook faster, so check for doneness after 45-60 minutes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soups and onion soup mix. Ensure your instant rice is also certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to Step 4 and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of onion soup mix?

A mix of dried onion flakes, beef bouillon powder, garlic powder, and parsley can replace the onion soup mix.

Conclusion

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy rice and tender chicken in one easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe delivers every time. With its versatility and ability to adapt to different tastes, it’s no wonder this dish is a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the rich flavors and creamy textures that make this recipe unforgettable!

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