If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying meal, look no further than the Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe. This classic baked chicken and rice dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy mushroom and chicken soup, infused with savory onion soup mix and garlic powder to create a dish so simple yet so delicious that it feels like a special treat any night of the week. The uncooked rice bakes right beneath the chicken, soaking up all those wonderful juices, making every bite a perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and richly flavored goodness that’s just waiting to be rediscovered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe is a breeze because it calls for pantry staples that come together perfectly to deliver incredible taste. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the texture, balance, and savory depth that make this dish unforgettable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, they soak up the delicious flavors as they bake.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): Cooks beautifully beneath the chicken, absorbing all the creamy goodness.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich and velvety texture to the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings earthy depth and flavor to the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice perfectly while blending the soups.
- 1 envelope onion soup mix: Packs a punch of savory seasoning that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle kick to balance the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the plate.
How to Make Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, setting the perfect temperature for a slow and even bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a cinch. This foundation ensures everything cooks just right without any fuss.
Step 2: Layer the Uncooked Rice
Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This step is crucial because as the dish bakes, the rice will soak up all those beautiful flavors, evolving from simple grains into a creamy, tender side that supports the stars of the dish: the chicken and sauce.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything thoroughly until smooth and well integrated. This luscious mixture will infuse the rice and chicken with rich, comforting flavor while keeping the whole dish perfectly moist.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the prepared soup mixture over the rice, spreading it evenly to create a flavorful bed. Then, arrange the chicken breasts on top of the sauce, spacing them so they bake evenly. Sprinkle the onion soup mix generously over the chicken – this is the secret ingredient that adds a punch of savory goodness and that signature flavor everyone loves about the Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through and the chicken to become tender and juicy. Resist the urge to uncover during baking, as this could prevent the rice from fully cooking. Once done, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before uncovering.
How to Serve Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple but elegant way to brighten this dish. Not only does it add a pop of color, but the fresh herbaceous note complements the creamy, savory flavors perfectly. You could also add a dash of freshly ground black pepper or a light drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, roasted root vegetables or garlic bread make excellent companions, rounding out a comforting, well-balanced dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the chicken breasts whole atop generous portions of rice straight from the baking dish. If you want to get a bit fancy, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out over the rice on individual plates, then drizzle some of the leftover sauce from the pan on top to enhance the creaminess and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and meld even further, making it an excellent choice for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that creamy texture intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F covered with foil, or microwave individual portions on medium power to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help maintain moisture and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor to the Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe. Just keep in mind dark meat may require slightly longer cooking times to become fully tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Since the dish relies heavily on cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, try substituting with dairy-free alternatives or homemade versions. Be sure to check the onion soup mix or make your own seasoning blend to avoid dairy ingredients.
Can I add vegetables directly into the dish?
Yes! Adding vegetables like chopped mushrooms, peas, or diced carrots into the rice mixture can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of added moisture, which might slightly affect cooking time.
What if I don’t have onion soup mix on hand?
No worries! You can create a simple seasoning blend with dried onion flakes, beef or vegetable bouillon powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to mimic the flavor profile.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Greasing the baking dish well before assembling and covering tightly during baking helps prevent sticking. Avoid uncovering midway to ensure the rice cooks evenly without drying out or sticking.
Final Thoughts
The Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe is truly a warming hug in a dish—simple ingredients transform into layers of comforting flavor and tender texture with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or searching for a reliable family favorite, this dish deserves a place in your rotation. Give it a try and watch friends and family fall in love with every creamy, savory bite!
Print
Amazing Forgotten Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting and easy-to-make baked chicken and rice casserole, known as Amazing Forgotten Chicken, features tender chicken breasts baked atop a creamy mixture of rice, soup, and savory seasonings. Perfect for a family dinner, this one-pan dish combines simple ingredients for a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Rice Mixture
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings
- 1 envelope onion soup mix (such as Lipton)
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the rice: Evenly spread the uncooked long grain white rice across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a base layer.
- Make the creamy mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and thoroughly blended.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the creamy soup mixture over the rice, spreading it evenly to cover the rice completely.
- Add the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the soup and rice mixture evenly.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts to add extra flavor.
- Cover and bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- For richer flavor, stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheese into the rice mixture before baking.
- Do not uncover the casserole while baking; uncovering can lead to undercooked rice.
