Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
Introduction to the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can compete with the timeless charm of a simple chicken and rice casserole. The Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe has been a beloved family favorite for decades because it combines everything people love about homemade meals: tender chicken, creamy rice, rich flavor, and effortless preparation.
This dish gets its name from the idea that you can “set it and forget it.” Once assembled, it bakes in the oven with minimal attention, allowing you to focus on other things while dinner takes care of itself. With just a few pantry staples like soups, rice, and onion soup mix, you’ll have a hearty meal that warms the soul.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight, planning a casual Sunday dinner, or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe delivers every time.
Why This Recipe Works
There are countless chicken and rice casseroles out there, but the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe stands out for several reasons:
Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – You don’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps. Canned soups and onion soup mix create a creamy, savory base that infuses both the rice and the chicken with bold flavor.
Set It and Forget It – The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Once you put the dish in the oven, you can walk away and come back to a perfectly cooked meal.
Family-Friendly Comfort Food – The creamy texture and mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a go-to family dinner option.
Customizable – While delicious as written, the recipe can be tailored to your taste with cheese, vegetables, or even different cuts of chicken.
Reliable Results – Every time you make this casserole, you’ll end up with juicy chicken and fluffy rice baked together in one pan.
That’s why the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe has stood the test of time—it’s reliable, tasty, and easy to love.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
To make the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. These are probably items you already keep stocked in your pantry or freezer:
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein. Substitute chicken thighs if you prefer darker, juicier meat.
2 cups instant rice (white or brown) – Quick-cooking rice ensures the dish is done in under an hour. Regular rice can be used but may require longer baking time and additional liquid.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Creamy and flavorful, it adds depth and richness.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds earthy flavor and enhances the creaminess.
1 can (10.5 oz) water – Measured using the empty soup can for perfect proportions.
1 envelope onion soup mix – The secret weapon that gives the dish bold flavor and savory notes.
1 tablespoon butter – For greasing the baking dish.
Optional Add-Ins
Shredded cheddar cheese – Sprinkled on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy twist.
Frozen vegetables – Peas, corn, green beans, or carrots make it a one-pan balanced meal.
Diced cooked chicken – A great way to use leftovers while boosting protein.
These simple ingredients come together to make the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe taste far more indulgent than its preparation would suggest.
How to Make the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dish cooks evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Cream of chicken soup
Cream of mushroom soup
Water (measured with the soup can)
Instant rice
Stir until well blended. The rice should be evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the soup and rice mixture into the greased dish, spreading it evenly. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle the entire envelope of onion soup mix evenly over the chicken and rice. This will create a flavorful crust on top while seasoning the entire casserole.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C), and the rice tender.
Step 7: Optional Finishing Touches
For extra richness, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking and let it melt into a golden, bubbly topping.
Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to set.
Congratulations—you’ve made the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
Here are some tried-and-true tips to make your Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe turn out perfectly every time:
Use Instant Rice for Best Results – Regular rice absorbs more liquid and may leave the dish too dry unless adjusted. Stick to instant rice for convenience.
Don’t Skip the Onion Soup Mix – It adds an incredible depth of flavor and seasons both the chicken and rice.
Check Doneness Early – Depending on your oven, the dish may cook faster than expected. Start checking around 40 minutes.
Add Veggies for Balance – Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for a complete one-pan meal.
Cheese Lovers Unite – Add a layer of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack before baking for a cheesy casserole.
Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to sit after baking ensures the rice isn’t runny.
Try with Chicken Thighs – If you prefer darker, juicier meat, boneless thighs work beautifully in this recipe.
These tricks guarantee that your Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe will be creamy, flavorful, and a repeat-worthy meal.
How to Serve the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
Serving this dish is as simple as scooping a hearty portion onto plates and letting the creamy, savory flavors shine. Because it’s already a complete meal of protein and carbs, it doesn’t need much else.
That said, here are a few ways to elevate your serving:
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Add a light side salad to balance the richness.
Serve with a crusty dinner roll to soak up the creamy sauce.
The Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is the kind of meal that feels satisfying and complete on its own but also pairs beautifully with lighter accompaniments.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some specific pairings and presentation ideas for the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe:
Side Salad – A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess.
Roasted Vegetables – Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans add texture.
Cranberry Sauce – A surprising but delightful pairing that brings tanginess.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for those who want an extra dose of comfort.
If you’re serving this dish for a gathering, present it in the baking dish with a sprinkle of cheese or herbs on top—it’s rustic, homestyle, and inviting.
Time Needed for the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe
One of the reasons the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is so loved is because it doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Here’s the time breakdown:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
That means in just one hour, you’ll have a hot, comforting meal on the table with almost no effort.
Final Thoughts
The Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe isn’t just a dish—it’s a lifesaver for busy nights, a comfort food for chilly days, and a crowd-pleaser for family dinners. Its magic lies in its simplicity: a handful of pantry staples, a quick prep, and the ability to “set it and forget it.”
From its creamy texture to its savory flavor, every bite is comforting and satisfying. Add a side salad, roasted veggies, or even just enjoy it as-is—the result will always be the same: happy, full bellies and requests for seconds.
It’s no wonder this dish has remained a classic for generations. Once you try it, the Delicious and Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe will likely become a regular star on your dinner table too.