Forgotten Chicken And Rice
Forgotten Chicken And Rice bakes chicken breasts, instant rice, cream soups, and onion soup mix into a creamy casserole with tender rice. It is a dependable comfort food dinner for family-style meals, make-ahead portions, and cozy leftovers.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups instant rice white or brown
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 can water 10.5 oz, measured in the empty soup can
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the dish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- 1 to 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables optional
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken optional, for stretching the casserole
- black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the instant rice evenly in the prepared dish and add frozen vegetables if using.
- Whisk the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, onion soup mix, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts over the rice and pour the soup mixture evenly across the top.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Add cheddar during the last 5 minutes if desired, then rest the casserole for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat covered portions with a small splash of broth or water until hot and creamy again.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 2 months, but expect the rice to soften slightly after thawing.
Expert Tips: Keep the foil tight during baking so steam can soften the rice and protect the chicken.
Variations: Add cheddar, frozen vegetables, chicken thighs, garlic powder, paprika, or a crunchy topping near the end.
Make Ahead: Mix the sauce and prep the chicken early, but add the rice just before baking for the best texture.
Budget Swaps: Use store-brand soups, frozen vegetables, and leftover cooked chicken to stretch the casserole further.