Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a super easy, slow-cooked dish that makes dinner a breeze! Just toss chicken, rice, and a few tasty spices into a pot and let it cook.
I love that it practically cooks itself while I focus on other things. Just set it and forget it—it’s like magic in the kitchen! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless or skinless thighs work too, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the base here because it cooks well and stays fluffy. If you want a whole grain option, brown rice is a hearty substitute, but you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient adds creamy texture and a rich flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try dairy-free alternatives or make a homemade version using chicken broth and flour.
Onion: A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth. If onions aren’t your thing, you could use shallots for a milder taste or even onion powder as a last resort.
Breadcrumbs: They provide a nice crunch on top. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, use crushed gluten-free crackers or just skip this step entirely.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Browned Chicken?
Searing chicken before baking gives it a delicious golden crust and locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until crispy and browned.
- Flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
This extra step will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture! If you’re short on time, it’s okay to skip it and go straight to baking—just season the chicken well.
How to Make Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour and 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time chopping and mixing, and then let the oven do its magic. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important so that the chicken and rice cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Mix the Rice Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom. This will be the flavorful base for your chicken.
4. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
If you want extra flavor, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step adds a crispy texture, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the browned (or raw) chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced out. This way, every bite gets delicious chicken.
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken thighs. This will create a nice crunchy texture on top once baked.
7. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 1 hour. This step helps to keep everything moist and full of flavor.
8. Finish Cooking Uncovered:
After 1 hour, carefully remove the foil. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once everything is cooked, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Forgotten Chicken and Rice! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness around 45-50 minutes. The internal temperature should still reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No problem! You can make a homemade substitute using a mixture of equal parts milk and chicken broth thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch. For flavor, you can add in some seasonings like salt and pepper, or a splash of soy sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep moisture in.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Simply mix them into the rice mixture before baking, or layer them underneath the chicken in the baking dish.
