Some recipes earn their place in family kitchens not because they’re fancy or complicated, but because they’re reliable, comforting, and always hit the spot.
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of dish — the kind you throw together in minutes, slide into the oven, and literally “forget” about until your whole house smells like a warm, creamy hug. This beloved American casserole became popular in the 70s and 80s as busy parents looked for easy, no-fuss meals that tasted homemade. And it hasn’t lost its charm. Today, it remains a weeknight hero: one dish, minimal prep, and maximum comfort. Tender baked chicken over fluffy, flavorful rice soaked in creamy soups and onion seasoning… every bite is pure nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping ahead for a busy week, or craving something simple and satisfying, this recipe delivers every single time.
⭐ Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Mix, cover, bake, done.
- One-dish meal: No pans, no sautéeing, minimal cleanup.
- Versatile: Add veggies, cheese, or swap chicken cuts easily.
- Comforting + creamy: A classic flavor combo that never disappoints.
- Budget-friendly: Shelf-stable ingredients you can keep on hand.
📝 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra tenderness)
- 2 cups instant rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water (use the empty can for measuring)
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Optional Add-Ins
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for a melty topping)
- Frozen peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables
- Extra cooked chicken for added protein
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter — this prevents sticking and adds flavor.
2. Make the Rice Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- cream of chicken soup
- cream of mushroom soup
- water
- instant rice
The mixture should be thick and creamy. This is what the rice will absorb while baking.
3. Assemble the Dish
Pour the rice mixture into your buttered baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Add the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts (or thighs) directly on top of the rice mixture. You can season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Add the Flavor Punch
Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the chicken. As it bakes, the seasoning melts into the rice, adding incredible flavor with zero effort.
6. Bake & Forget
Cover tightly with foil.
Bake for 1 to 1½ hours, depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken.
The rice should be tender, and the chicken fully cooked and juicy.
7. Optional Cheesy Finish
Uncover during the last 10 minutes and sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top. Bake until melty and golden.
8. Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to settle the flavors.
Serve straight from the pan — it’s rustic, homey, and delicious.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- A crisp garden salad
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs if you want extra juicy meat.
- Add veggies directly to the rice mixture — no need to thaw them first.
- Make it ranch-style by adding 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning to the soups.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of paprika or chili flakes.
- No instant rice? Use regular long-grain, but increase water to 1.5 cans and bake closer to 1½ hours