Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Table of Contents

Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a classic, no-fuss comfort dish that practically cooks itself, which is how it got its name—you can “forget” about it in the oven while it works its magic. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken breasts or thighs, rice, cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, and a few spices, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, with minimal prep and cleanup.

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken)

Total Time: About 2 hours

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs, skinless & boneless

1 cup long-grain rice

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup chicken broth

1 onion, chopped

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Set oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Baking Dish:

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix:

Long-grain rice

Cream of mushroom soup

Diced tomatoes (with juices)

Chicken broth

Chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika

Stir to combine evenly.

Season the Chicken:

Season both sides of chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.

Nestle the chicken on top of the rice mixture.

Cover & Bake:

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam.

Tips & Tricks

Use Long-Grain Rice: Stick to long-grain white rice for the best texture. Instant or quick-cooking rice will get mushy, while brown rice may need extra liquid and longer cooking time.

Season Generously: While the cream soups add flavor, don’t forget to season your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky touch.

Cover Tightly: Make sure to cover your dish with foil or a lid to trap moisture, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and stays fluffy.

Check for Doneness: After 1.5 hours, check if the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). If needed, cook for an extra 15-30 minutes.

Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or mushrooms before baking for a one-dish meal with added nutrition.

Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, melty finish.

Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Boneless, skinless thighs tend to stay juicier than breasts during the long cooking time.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 400-450

Protein: 30-35g

Carbohydrates: 35-40g

Fat: 15-20g

Saturated Fat: 5-8g

Cholesterol: 80-100mg

Fiber: 1-2g

Sodium: 800-1000mg (can be reduced using low-sodium soups)