Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that simplifies your weeknight dinners while delivering rich flavor and comfort. This dish combines tender chicken with creamy rice, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy evenings. With minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, this recipe stands out for its ease and deliciousness, ensuring you’ll be back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it.
- One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Rich Flavor – The combination of cream soups and onion soup mix creates a savory taste you’ll crave.
- Versatility – Great for serving at family dinners or potlucks; it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Adaptable Ingredients – Use what you have on hand, from different types of rice to various chicken cuts.
Tools and Preparation
To make Forgotten Chicken and Rice, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here are the essentials:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan – This size is perfect for evenly cooking your chicken and rice in one go.
- Mixing bowl – A sturdy bowl helps combine ingredients without spills, keeping the kitchen tidy.
Ingredients
Forgotten Chicken – the crazy easy one-pan meal that’s going to become your new weeknight feast MVP.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
For the Rice Mixture
- 2 cups Minute rice (white or brown)
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 10.5 oz can water
For Flavoring
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Grease the Baking Pan
- Begin by greasing a 9×13 baking pan with the butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and Minute rice.
- Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Pour the rice and soup mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Place the boneless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
Step 4: Add Flavor
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts for added flavor.
Step 5: Bake It!
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 1 to 1½ hours until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping
- If desired, uncover and sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Let stand for about 5 minutes before serving directly from the baking pan.
- Enjoy your creamy Forgotten Chicken and Rice!
How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Serving Forgotten Chicken and Rice is simple and versatile. This creamy dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a hit for any family dinner or gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Family Style
- Serve the chicken and rice directly from the baking pan for a rustic feel that encourages sharing among family and friends.
Individual Portions
- Scoop out servings into bowls for a more refined presentation. This is perfect for guests or when serving on special occasions.
With Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top before serving to add a fresh burst of flavor and color to your dish.
Accompanied by Salad
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the chicken and rice.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side. They are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Topped with Cheese
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt perfectly.
How to Perfect Forgotten Chicken and Rice
To ensure your Forgotten Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
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Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken breasts and high-end cream soups for richer flavor.
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Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly. Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices or herbs like thyme or paprika to enhance flavor depth.
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Let it rest: Allowing the dish to stand for 5 minutes after baking helps it set, making servings easier.
Best Side Dishes for Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Accompanying your Forgotten Chicken and Rice with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: A light, nutritious side that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in olive oil with garlic for a flavorful crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons adds a refreshing element.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Sweet roasted sprouts bring a delicious contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that complements this heartwarming dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a crunchy texture that balances out the richness of the main dish.
- Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes can serve as another comforting option alongside your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish that cleanses the palate after rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Forgotten Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the baking pan can lead to a mess. Always use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Incorrect Chicken Size: Using chicken pieces that are too thick can result in uneven cooking. Choose uniform sizes for even doneness.
- Not Covering Tightly: Failing to cover the dish tightly with foil might dry out your chicken and rice. Ensure it’s sealed well for optimal moisture retention.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Rushing the cooking time can leave your chicken undercooked. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer or by ensuring juices run clear.
- Forgetting Cheese: Skipping the optional cheese topping can miss an extra layer of flavor. Consider adding shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a creamy finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Forgotten Chicken and Rice:
How do I know when my Forgotten Chicken and Rice is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the rice should be tender.
Can I use brown rice in Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used but may require additional liquid and a longer cooking time.
What other vegetables can I add to Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Feel free to add peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Are there variations of this Forgotten Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize it with different soups or spices according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is not just a simple recipe; it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer adding vegetables or trying different soups, this dish is bound to become a family favorite!
Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately six servings 1x
Description
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal that transforms your weeknight dinners into a delightful experience. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken breasts with creamy rice, resulting in a savory and satisfying flavor profile that will have your family asking for seconds. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set this dish in the oven and enjoy more time with your loved ones. Whether it’s a family gathering or a busy evening, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and deliciousness to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Minute rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan with butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and Minute rice; stir until mixed.
- Pour the rice mixture into the greased baking pan and place the chicken breasts on top.
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the chicken.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 to 1½ hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Optionally, uncover and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving directly from the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
