Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and so easy to make that you can “forget” about it while it bakes to perfection in the oven. This one-dish wonder is perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends when you want something delicious with minimal effort. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy sauce, it’s bound to be a family favorite!
Why This Recipe Works
One-Pan Magic: Everything is cooked together in one pan, meaning less mess and easy cleanup.
Minimal Prep Time: Just 10 minutes of prep work, then the oven does the rest.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken: The chicken stays moist and tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the creamy sauce and onion soup mix.
Customizable: Add cheese, veggies, or extra spices to make it your own!
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: This recipe serves eight, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish.
2 cups instant rice (white or brown): Absorbs the flavors of the soup and cooks to fluffy perfection.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy, savory base.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Enhances the flavor with earthy richness.
1 can (10.5 oz) water: Helps cook the rice and creates a creamy texture.
Seasoning
1 envelope onion soup mix: Packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
Optional Additions
Shredded cheddar cheese: For a cheesy twist.
Frozen vegetables: Add nutrition and texture.
Diced chicken: For an extra protein boost.
For Preparing the Dish
1 tablespoon butter: Used for greasing the baking pan to prevent sticking.
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking for the chicken and rice.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
Cream of chicken soup
Cream of mushroom soup
Water
Instant rice
Stir the mixture until it’s well blended. This creates the creamy base for the rice.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the soup and rice mixture into the greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
Step 5: Add the Seasoning
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken. This step is key to infusing bold, savory flavors into the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1½ hours, or until:
The chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The rice is fully cooked and tender.
Step 7: Optional Topping
For extra flavor, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and let it melt into the dish.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. Scoop directly from the pan and enjoy!
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Rice Type: Stick to instant rice for best results. Regular rice may require additional liquid and a longer cooking time.
Chicken Size: Use smaller chicken breasts or slice large ones in half for more even cooking.
Seal Tightly: Make sure the foil is tightly secured to lock in steam, which helps cook the rice and keeps the chicken moist.
Cheesy Upgrade: For a gooey finish, sprinkle cheese on top and broil for 1–2 minutes to create a golden crust.
Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Effortless Comfort Food: This dish requires minimal prep and no babysitting while it cooks.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The onion soup mix and creamy base make for an irresistible flavor combo.
Versatile: Add cheese, veggies, or extra seasonings to suit your taste.
Family Favorite: It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste just as good, making it a great option for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
Dinner Rolls: Scoop up the creamy rice with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage + Reheating
Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the rice looks dry.
Final Thoughts
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a dish. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this creamy, hearty dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So go ahead, pop it in the oven, “forget” about it, and let your home fill with the mouthwatering aroma of comfort food at its finest. Enjoy!