Description
Forgotten Chicken is a creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy oven-baked dish made with chicken, rice, cream soups, and onion soup mix. The name comes from its effortless set-it-and-forget-it method—just assemble the ingredients, bake it covered, and let the oven do the work! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or family dinners, as it requires minimal prep and delivers deliciously tender chicken with flavorful, fluffy rice. Whether you make it in the oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, Forgotten Chicken is a classic comfort food that’s simple yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour half of this mixture over the rice. Place the chicken breasts over the rice and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the remaining soup mixture over the chicken, covering completely, and sprinkle onion soup mix over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and rice tender.
- Remove foil during the last 15 minutes for a golden top if desired.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Use the Right Rice: Stick to long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati) for the best texture. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as it will turn mushy. If using brown rice, add extra broth and bake longer.
Bone-in vs. Boneless Chicken:
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs add more flavor and moisture.
- Boneless, skinless breasts work too but may cook faster, so check for doneness early.
Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the dish seals in moisture and helps the rice cook evenly. Removing it too soon can cause dry chicken or undercooked rice.
Customize the Flavor:
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or black pepper for extra seasoning.
- Stir in cheese, vegetables, or hot sauce for a twist.
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.