Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that effortlessly combines tender chicken with flavorful rice and creamy soups. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. The unique blend of ingredients ensures a rich taste without requiring extensive prep work, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of cream soups and onion soup mix provides a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Dish: Customize your Forgotten Chicken and Rice by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Feed a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delectable dish, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: The ideal size for cooking this meal evenly while ensuring all ingredients fit perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the creamy base before pouring it over the chicken and rice.
Ingredients
Forgotten Chicken – the crazy easy one-pan meal that’s going to become your new weeknight feast MVP.
For the Chicken and Rice Base
- 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 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
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Grease the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 baking pan with the butter to ensure that nothing sticks during cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and Minute rice. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Pour the rice and soup mixture into the prepared baking pan. Lay the chicken breasts on top of this mixture.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the top of the chicken breasts for an added burst of flavor.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping
If desired, uncover the pan and add shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once done, let stand for about 5 minutes before serving this creamy chicken and rice directly from the baking pan. Enjoy!
How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Serving Forgotten Chicken and Rice is incredibly easy and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed straight from the baking pan, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy chicken and rice masterpiece.
Family Style
- Serve directly from the baking pan for a rustic touch that encourages sharing.
- Allow guests to help themselves for a casual dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall presentation.
Over Greens
- Plate the chicken and rice over a bed of sautéed spinach or mixed greens.
- This adds a healthy component, making your meal more balanced.
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls work well for a comforting addition.
With a Side Salad
- Pair with a light garden salad dressed in vinaigrette.
- This contrast in flavors refreshes the palate between bites of rich chicken and rice.
How to Perfect Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Perfecting Forgotten Chicken and Rice ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken breasts for better taste and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices according to your preference—garlic powder or paprika can enhance flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Check the chicken’s doneness at 1 hour to avoid overcooking; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding different types of cheese during the last few minutes of baking, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for added richness.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate peas, carrots, or bell peppers into the rice mixture for extra nutrition and color.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance; it’s excellent for meal prepping and can be frozen before baking.
Best Side Dishes for Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Complementing Forgotten Chicken and Rice with side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli
A simple, healthy choice that adds color and nutrients while balancing out the creaminess of the main dish. - Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with chicken. - Roasted Asparagus
Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a crisp texture contrast that complements the soft rice. - Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and tanginess, enhancing your meal’s flavors beautifully. - Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn is a delightful treat that adds sweetness to balance out savory notes in the chicken dish. - Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that works well against the creaminess of chicken and rice. - Baked Beans
Hearty baked beans add protein and fiber while introducing sweet elements to your meal. - Rice Pilaf
A seasoned rice pilaf can enhance your dining experience by adding another layer of flavor without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Forgotten Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the grease: Not greasing the baking pan can lead to sticking. Always use butter or cooking spray to ensure easy serving.
- Incorrect rice type: Using non-instant rice can result in uneven cooking. Stick to Minute rice for the best results.
- Not layering properly: Pouring the rice mixture directly over the chicken can lead to dry chicken. Ensure chicken is on top for proper moisture retention.
- Ignoring cook time: Underbaking can leave chicken raw. Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Omitting cheese: Skipping the optional cheese topping means missing out on extra creaminess. Consider adding it during the last few minutes for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a simple one-pan meal where chicken breasts bake with rice and creamy soups, creating a flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring they reach safe internal temperatures.
How do I customize Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition. Spices such as garlic powder or paprika can enhance flavor as well.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables complements the rich flavors of Forgotten Chicken and Rice beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is not just easy; it’s incredibly versatile! This dish allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try today!
Forgotten Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice for a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The unique blend of flavors creates a satisfying experience in every bite, making it a favorite among families. Plus, it serves up to 8 people, allowing you to feed a crowd without the hassle of multiple dishes.
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 can (10.5 oz) water
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan with butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and Minute rice. Mix well.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking pan and place the chicken breasts on top.
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the chicken.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Optional: Add shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
