Description
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a classic no-fuss comfort casserole where everything bakes together into a creamy, savory dish. Made with pantry staples, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
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)
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- Optional: 1 cup diced cooked chicken (to stretch the protein)
- Optional: Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions
1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well until evenly mixed.
3. Transfer the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
4. Stir in frozen vegetables or shredded cheese if desired. These add-ins can elevate the dish and make it more substantial.
5. Place the raw chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. If they’re particularly thick, consider butterflying them for even cooking.
6. Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top of the chicken. This adds both seasoning and savory depth.
7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Do not lift the foil during baking—this traps the moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly.
8. After 1 hour, remove the foil. The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C), and the rice should be tender and creamy.
9. For a golden top, broil the casserole uncovered for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.
10. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
Assemble Ahead: You can fully assemble the casserole (uncooked), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezer Friendly: Freeze the unbaked casserole (without foil) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg