Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Update : November 21, 2025

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It comes together quickly and requires only a few ingredients. Forgetting the chicken and rice in the oven will reward you with a warm, creamy meal that the whole family will enjoy. The best part? The preparation is simple and is quite forgiving, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, this dish is packed with protein from the chicken, and you can always sneak in some vegetables if you like. It’s versatile and can be adjusted to your family’s tastes. If you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and has a bit of nostalgia, this recipe for Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a fantastic choice.

How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Making Forgotten Chicken and Rice is straightforward and fun. You’ll begin by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven. The rest is simply mixing, layering, and allowing the oven to do its magic. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature when your dish is ready to go in. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. This step is important to prevent the dish from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Use the empty soup can to measure the water accurately. Add your uncooked instant rice to this mixture and stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Pour into the Baking Dish:
Transfer the soup and rice mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure that the rice cooks uniformly.
Add Optional Ingredients (If Using):
If you want to enhance your dish, now is the time to stir in the frozen mixed vegetables or a cup of shredded cheese. These additions are entirely up to you but they can elevate the flavor and texture of the meal.
Top with Chicken:
Place your raw chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider cutting them in half horizontally (butterflying) to help them cook more evenly.
Sprinkle Soup Mix:
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the top of the chicken. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish that enhances the savory profile.
Cover and Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is crucial as it traps moisture inside, ensuring that the rice cooks properly. Bake for 60 minutes without lifting the foil.
Check for Doneness:
After an hour, carefully remove the foil. The chicken should be fully cooked (make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), and the rice should be tender and creamy.
Optional Broil:
For those who love a bit of color, broil the casserole uncovered for 3–5 minutes until the top is lightly browned. This step isn’t necessary, but it can create a pleasing texture.
Let Rest and Serve:
After removing the dish from the oven, allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This waiting period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.

How to Serve Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Serving Forgotten Chicken and Rice is easy and enjoyable. You can scoop out generous portions directly from the casserole dish. This meal pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. The creamy texture and flavorful chicken make this dish a complete meal on its own, but feel free to pair it with some steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.

How to Store Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Storing leftovers of Forgotten Chicken and Rice is simple. Allow the dish to cool before placing it in an airtight container. This makes sure the flavors stay intact and doesn’t cause a mess in your fridge. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep leftovers longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, make sure it is in a freezer-safe container and labeled. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Adjust Cook Time: If you’re using particularly thick chicken breasts, you might need to add a few more minutes of baking time. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F internal temperature).
Flavor Variations: Use different types of soup like cream of celery or even a cheesy soup for a different twist on flavors.
Try Different Cheeses: Instead of cheddar, you could use mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Be creative with cheese!
Use Fresh Ingredients: If you have fresh vegetables on hand, such as bell peppers or spinach, you can add them too. Just make sure they are chopped small enough to cook well in the oven.
Substitute the Rice: If you prefer using regular rice instead of instant, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. However, be aware that regular rice often requires more liquid.

Variation

You can modify this recipe according to your tastes. For instance, using different types of proteins like turkey or tofu can give you a new dish entirely. You can also add other vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or carrots—whatever is in your fridge! If you want more flavor, consider using flavored rice or broth instead of plain water.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may need a longer cooking time. Be sure to check the internal temperature before serving to ensure it is fully cooked.

2. What can I serve with Forgotten Chicken and Rice?
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or some crunchy bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Just layer the ingredients as outlined, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

By following the steps in this article, you can create a delicious dish of Forgotten Chicken and Rice that your family will love. Enjoy cooking!