Forgotten Chicken And Rice
Forgotten Chicken and Rice is a comforting baked dish featuring tender chicken atop seasoned rice infused with onions and mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners, its hearty flavors and simple preparation make it a timeless favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the rice mixed with dry onion soup and mushrooms in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cut up the chicken; season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture.
- Mix the cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup with 2 1/2 cans of water.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice.
- Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until cooked through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use long-grain rice to ensure it cooks evenly with the chicken juices. If you prefer, substitute the dry onion soup with a mix of sautéed onions and garlic for a fresher flavor. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor. Consider making a side of 'You Won'T Believe This' Cornbread Stuffing to complement the meal.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting dish can be served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with 'Quick Potatoes Au Gratin' for a hearty side. For a burst of flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and microwave or bake until heated through. Alternatively, this dish can be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Forgotten Chicken And Rice contains roughly 100 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 762mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water to about 3 cups and increase the baking time to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using flour, butter, and milk with sautéed mushrooms for flavor. This will provide a similar creamy texture.
Is it necessary to cut the chicken before baking?
Cutting the chicken allows it to cook evenly and ensures the flavors penetrate the meat better. However, if you prefer, you can also bake the chicken whole; just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).