Description
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a simple and delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a rich blend of flavors, this comforting dish requires minimal prep and practically cooks itself. It’s an ideal family dinner that can be easily customized with different ingredients, making it a versatile staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Minute rice (white or brown)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can water
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the pan)
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
Optional Ingredients:
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, or broccoli)
- Diced chicken (as an alternative to whole breasts)
Instructions
- Grease the Baking Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter, ensuring an even coating to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. - Mix the Rice and Soup Base:
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of Minute rice, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 1 can of water. Stir until well mixed. If you prefer softer rice, add an extra half-cup of water or broth. - Assemble the Dish:
Pour the rice and soup mixture into the greased baking pan, then place the chicken breasts on top. Positioning the chicken on top allows the juices to flavor the rice while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. - Sprinkle the Onion Soup Mix:
Evenly sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix over the chicken. This adds a savory depth of flavor and helps create a flavorful crust on the chicken as it bakes. - Bake the Dish:
Cover the baking pan tightly with foil to trap the steam and keep the rice moist. Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 ½ hours until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the rice is tender. - Optional: Add Cheese:
For a cheesy finish, uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Rest Before Serving:
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors settle and ensures the rice absorbs any remaining moisture for a perfectly creamy texture.
Notes
- Rice Substitution: If using regular rice, increase the liquid by about 1 cup and extend the baking time by 30-40 minutes.
- Customizations: Add frozen or fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition, or spice things up with chili flakes or a different cream soup (such as cream of celery or cheddar).
- Freezing Tip: This dish freezes well, but it’s best to omit the cheese before freezing. Add the cheese when reheating for the best texture.