Amazing Forgotten Chicken

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Yield: Serves 6

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Course: Main Dish

• Cuisine: American

• Keywords: forgotten chicken, easy baked chicken, creamy chicken and rice, dump and bake, chicken casserole

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)

• 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked – do not use instant rice)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup (or use a second can of cream of mushroom if you prefer)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 packet dry onion soup mix (e.g., Lipton)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces – optional for richness)

• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven rack is in the middle position.

 Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter.

 Step 3: Mix the Rice and Soup Base

In the baking dish, combine:

• 2 cups of uncooked long-grain rice

• Cream of chicken soup

• Cream of mushroom soup

• Cream of celery soup

• Chicken broth

• Garlic powder and black pepper (if using)

Stir everything together until well combined and the rice is evenly distributed.

 Step 4: Add the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in a single layer. Press them down slightly so they’re partially submerged in the liquid.

 Step 5: Season and Finish Assembly

Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top of the chicken. If using, dot the top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.

 Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time. That’s why it’s called “forgotten” — you set it and don’t check on it until it’s done!

 Step 7: Check for Doneness

After 1 hour 30 minutes, remove the foil. The rice should be fully cooked and creamy, and the chicken should be tender and at least 165°F (74°C) inside. If needed, bake uncovered for 5–10 more minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.

 Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is rich, filling, and perfect on its own, but here are some great sides that pair beautifully with Amazing Forgotten Chicken:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a fresh contrast

• Dinner rolls or garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce

• Side salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness

• Roasted carrots or glazed baby carrots

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheat: Microwave single servings or reheat in a 350°F oven, covered, until hot (about 20 minutes).

Recipe Variations

• Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped mushrooms before baking.

• Use thighs: Boneless skinless chicken thighs work great and stay very juicy.

• Make it cheesy: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the last 10 minutes of baking.

• Use different soups: You can swap out any of the cream soups depending on what you have on hand.

Tips for Best Results

• Do not use instant rice. It will become mushy.

• Seal the foil tightly to trap steam — this is key to cooking the rice and chicken properly.

• Don’t peek! Opening the oven interrupts the cooking process.

• Cut thick chicken breasts in half horizontally if they’re very large — this ensures they cook through evenly.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

These are approximate values and may vary based on exact ingredients used.