Growing up, family dinners were always a big deal. I remember the comforting aroma that filled our home when my mother cooked her signature dish: Forgotten Chicken and Rice. This easy casserole became a staple in our household because it was not only delicious but also effortlessly prepared. You simply toss everything into a baking dish, let it cook, and before you know it, a warm, hearty meal awaits you. In this article, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe, offering not just the steps to create it, but also tips and variations to make it your own.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many wonderful reasons to whip up this Forgotten Chicken and Rice casserole. Here are a few standouts:
- Quick and simple to prepare: This dish comes together in a flash, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly meal: Picky eaters will find it hard to resist this comforting mix of flavors.
- Great for beginners: If you’re new to cooking, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, while still delivering a satisfying meal.
- Versatile: You can customize it with various veggies or seasonings based on your family’s preferences.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare this casserole in advance, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Forgotten Chicken and Rice:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups instant 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 (use the empty soup can for measurement)
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken (to stretch the protein)
- Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure your casserole cooks thoroughly and evenly.
Prepare the Base Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well to ensure everything is properly mixed together.
Pour into the Baking Dish
Transfer your creamy rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Add Optional Ingredients
If you choose, stir in frozen vegetables or shredded cheese at this stage. These add-ins not only boost the nutritional value but also enhance flavor and texture.
Top with Chicken
Place the raw chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. If the breasts are particularly thick, butterfly them to ensure they cook evenly.
Sprinkle Soup Mix
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken before placing it in the oven. This seasoning will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Avoid lifting the foil during this time; keeping it sealed traps moisture.
Check for Doneness
After an hour, carefully remove the foil. The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice tender and creamy.
Optional Broil
For an appealing, golden-brown top, you may choose to broil the casserole uncovered for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Let Rest and Serve
Before serving, allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps set the casserole, making it easier to serve.
Pro Tips and Variations
To elevate your Forgotten Chicken and Rice experience, consider these pro tips and variations:
- Use different proteins: Besides chicken, you can use turkey or rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- Add herbs and spices: Customize the dish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a sprinkle of cayenne for heat.
- Incorporate more vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can be great additions.
- Make it creamy: Swap out one can of soup for a can of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Leftover transformation: The dish can be repurposed as a filling for burritos or a topping for baked potatoes!
How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice
This delightful casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- With a fresh salad: A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements the rich casserole beautifully.
- Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies brings color and nutrition to your dinner plate.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
How to Store Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Storing leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, either microwave individual servings or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, covering it with foil to avoid drying out.
Nutrition Information
This recipe is not only comforting but also balanced and filling. Here is a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
- Calories: Approximately 420
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown rice will offer additional fiber and nutrients. Just note that it will require a longer cooking time.
2. Is it okay to use frozen chicken?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken if necessary; just ensure it cooks well through.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven due to being cold.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth in place of the creamy soups to keep it hearty and delicious.
Conclusion
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting meal that brings family and friends together. Its simplicity, combined with versatility and flavor, makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Give this dish a try and share your experience; I am sure it will become a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine!
Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well to ensure everything is properly mixed together.
- Transfer your creamy rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- If you choose, stir in frozen vegetables or shredded cheese at this stage.
- Place the raw chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. If the breasts are particularly thick, butterfly them to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken before placing it in the oven.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
- After an hour, carefully remove the foil to check for doneness; the chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice tender and creamy.
- For an appealing, golden-brown top, you may choose to broil the casserole uncovered for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.