An Effortless Dinner That Practically Cooks Itself
If you're looking for the kind of dinner that saves time, warms your soul, and pleases even the pickiest eaters, then look no further. Forgotten Chicken and Rice is the go-to recipe for busy families and anyone who appreciates rich, home-cooked flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. True to its name, this dish can be “forgotten” in the oven while you tackle other tasks, and it still delivers exceptional results every single time.
Made with simple pantry staples, this no-fail, dump-and-bake recipe is known for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and effortless preparation. It’s especially perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, meal prep, or cozy Sunday dinners.
Ingredients for Forgotten Chicken and Rice
One of the biggest advantages of this meal is that it doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Everything you need can be found in your kitchen already—or easily picked up during a quick grocery run.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas or carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, or chives)
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows your dish to bake evenly and slowly while locking in moisture and flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Base
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, add the uncooked rice. Pour in both cans of cream soups and the chicken broth. Stir together to form a creamy, smooth base.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts or thighs directly over the rice and soup mixture. Make sure they are evenly spaced and slightly pressed into the mixture.
Step 4: Season and Top
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top of the chicken and rice. You can also dot the top with small pieces of butter to enhance flavor and browning.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap in the moisture. Place in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Do not lift the foil during this time, as it will release steam necessary for cooking the rice.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This final step allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and settle.
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
This dish earns its name because once it's in the oven, you can literally forget about it. There's no stirring, flipping, or checking involved. It's comfort food in its purest form—warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. Every bite is loaded with creamy rice, tender chicken, and layers of savory flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Use Long-Grain White Rice
This recipe requires uncooked long-grain white rice. Do not use minute rice, jasmine, or brown rice, as they require different cooking times and may not cook properly in the dish.
Seal Tightly
Make sure your foil is sealed tightly around the dish. Trapping the steam is essential for cooking the rice thoroughly and keeping the chicken moist.
Don’t Overcook
Set a timer and resist the urge to open the oven door. The 90-minute cook time is just right for creating fork-tender chicken and fluffy rice.
Recipe Variations You’ll Love
1. Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Add one cup of shredded cheese to the soup mixture or sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. It creates a golden, gooey crust that’s irresistible.
2. Vegetable Medley Version
Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped broccoli for a well-rounded meal in one dish. Kids won’t even notice the veggies with all the creamy goodness.
3. Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Season your chicken with Cajun spices or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. The heat balances beautifully with the creamy texture.
4. Mushroom Lovers’ Delight
Use extra mushrooms or substitute one can of soup for cream of mushroom with roasted garlic for earthy, bold flavor.
Perfect Pairings to Complete the Meal
Although Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a full meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side elevates the dinner experience. Try it with:
- Garlic butter green beans
- Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts
- Buttery corn on the cob
- Garden salad with vinaigrette
- Fresh-baked dinner rolls or garlic bread
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Refrigerating Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing
Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This dish is perfect for batch cooking. You can prepare multiple pans at once—bake one now and freeze the others unbaked for later use. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Why Families Keep Coming Back to Forgotten Chicken and Rice
This dish has been passed down through generations. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. It’s warm, hearty, and dependable. Everyone loves it—from toddlers to teens to grandparents. It also feeds a crowd and stretches your grocery budget without sacrificing quality or taste.
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is more than just food. It’s a memory in the making, a tradition on your plate, and a reliable go-to when you need something easy, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.
Healthier Twists for the Nutrition-Conscious
Swap for Low-Sodium Soups
Choose reduced-sodium versions of cream soups and broth to keep salt levels in check.
Go Lean with Chicken
Opt for lean chicken breasts or tenderloins to lower fat content.
Add Fiber with Brown Rice
If you’d like to use brown rice, pre-cook it halfway before adding it to the dish. This ensures it finishes cooking along with the rest of the meal.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have Recipe for Every Home Cook
Whether you’re feeding your family or planning ahead, Forgotten Chicken and Rice belongs in your recipe box. It takes the stress out of mealtime and replaces it with warmth, flavor, and comfort. With endless variations, make-ahead convenience, and foolproof instructions, this is the ultimate dinner solution you’ll want to return to again and again.