Forgotten Chicken(Easy)
A comforting baked chicken and rice dish with creamy celery flavor, enhanced by onion soup mix. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream of celery soup, rice, and milk in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Lightly salt and pepper the chicken pieces.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle dry onion soup mix over all ingredients.
- Cover the dish and bake at 325°F for 2 hours or until chicken and rice are thoroughly cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rice mixture. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or chicken soup can work as substitutes. Adjust the amount of onion soup mix according to your taste preference, as some brands can be saltier than others.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A crusty bread or rolls, such as Blue Ribbon Overnight Rolls, can complement the creamy flavors beautifully. For a comforting finish, consider pairing it with a dessert like Egg Nog Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if the rice seems dry. This dish also freezes well; just thaw completely before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Forgotten Chicken(Easy) contains roughly 468 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 776mg per serving (34% 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 regular rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to increase the cooking time significantly, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, adding a bit more milk or water to ensure it cooks properly.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces work best as they remain moist and flavorful during baking. However, you can use boneless chicken if preferred, but be mindful that cooking times may vary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture and season the chicken the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This can save time and make for a quick dinner option.
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).