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Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 27 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Recipe is a comforting, one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken breasts, creamy soups, instant rice, and savory onion soup mix, it’s a hassle-free casserole that bakes all in one pan. Optional add-ins like shredded cheddar cheese and frozen mixed vegetables can be added to boost flavor and nutrition. Baking at a moderate temperature with a foil cover ensures the rice cooks to a creamy consistency while the chicken remains juicy. A quick broil at the end adds a golden, slightly crisp topping for an extra delicious finish.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 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 soup can for measurement)
  • 1 envelope onion soup mix
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 cup diced cooked chicken (to stretch the protein)
  • Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Soups and Rice: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir well until evenly mixed.
  3. Transfer Mixture: Pour the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
  4. Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables or shredded cheese if desired. These add more flavor and substance to the dish.
  5. Arrange Chicken: Place the raw chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. For even cooking, butterfly thicker pieces if needed.
  6. Season Chicken: Evenly sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top of the chicken breasts to add seasoning and enhance flavor.
  7. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. Do not remove the foil during baking, as this traps moisture and allows the rice to cook properly.
  8. Check Doneness: After baking, remove the foil carefully. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the rice should be creamy and tender.
  9. Broil for Color: For a golden, lightly browned top, broil the uncovered casserole for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Notes

  • Butterflying thick chicken breasts helps ensure even cooking.
  • Use frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn to add nutrition and color.
  • If desired, add a dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika to the soup mixture for extra flavor.
  • The casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; just increase baking time slightly when reheating.
  • Instant rice is key to this recipe’s easy and quick cooking process.
  • Checking the internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer ensures food safety.