Forgotten Chicken Recipe: Have you ever needed a recipe so easy you could literally forget it in the oven and come back to a delicious dinner? That’s exactly what the Forgotten Chicken recipe is all about. It’s the busy cook’s dream, a nostalgic, creamy, one-pan dish that basically cooks itself while you handle everything else life throws at you. No fancy techniques. No endless stirring. Just layer, cover, bake—and forget it till it’s done.
This dish became popular for good reason. It’s a family favorite that only takes minutes to throw together but delivers all the warm, hearty, comforting flavors you’d expect from a Sunday supper. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you just don’t have the energy to think about dinner.
We’re going to break it all down for you: the ingredients, the tools, and a foolproof step-by-step guide that’ll make you wonder why you haven’t tried this sooner. Ready to master one of the easiest, coziest meals ever?
What is Forgotten Chicken?
You might be wondering, “What’s with the name?” Well, the answer is pretty simple. This chicken casserole recipe gets its nickname because after you pop it in the oven, you’re basically free to forget about it for a while. There’s no need to check on it, stir it, or hover over the stove. It’s designed to be hands-off—and that’s what makes it magical.
At its core, Forgotten Chicken is a classic Southern-style baked chicken and rice casserole. You take uncooked rice, top it with cream soups and chicken breasts, sprinkle a flavorful onion soup mix over the top, cover it tightly, and bake. While the oven does all the heavy lifting, the rice absorbs the soup and moisture from the chicken, creating a rich, creamy base that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s not a new recipe, either. Many families have had some version of this dish passed down for generations. It’s a potluck staple, a Sunday dinner savior, and often one of the first recipes a beginner cook learns because it’s nearly impossible to mess up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason Forgotten Chicken has stood the test of time. It checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner that hits the spot.
Here’s what makes it a keeper:
- Ridiculously Easy Prep – You don’t need to precook anything. Just mix, layer, cover, and bake.
- One Dish Means Less Cleanup – Everything cooks in the same baking dish. That means fewer dishes and more time for yourself.
- Perfect for Busy Days – Whether you’re coming home from work, juggling kids’ activities, or just not in the mood to cook, this recipe works.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients – Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry or freezer.
- Customizable – You can switch up the soups, add veggies, or use thighs instead of breasts.
- Leftovers Reheat Beautifully – It’s just as tasty the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
If you’re into cozy comfort food with minimal effort, this recipe will become part of your weekly rotation in no time.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy casserole to life. Don’t worry, nothing fancy—just good ol’ pantry staples.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer juicy dark meat)
- 2 cups Minute rice (instant white rice) – Do not use long-grain or brown rice!
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- 1 ½ cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
- Dash of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Substitution Guide:
- No cream of mushroom? Use two cans of cream of chicken.
- Want it dairy-free? Use a plant-based cream soup alternative.
- Hate mushrooms? Swap for cream of celery or cheddar cheese soup.
- No Minute Rice? Unfortunately, this recipe won’t work without it—timing and liquid ratios are based on instant rice.
This ingredient list is short, sweet, and flexible—just how we like our comfort food.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need much in the way of equipment to make this dish, which is why it’s a go-to for beginners.
Essentials:
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Glass or ceramic works best
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil – For tightly covering the dish
- Mixing bowl (optional) – If you want to combine soups and rice before pouring into the dish
And that’s it! This is truly a minimalist kitchen moment.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Forgotten Chicken
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for slow-cooking the chicken and allowing the rice to absorb all that creamy, savory flavor. Don’t skip this step—starting with a hot oven ensures everything cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter, oil, or nonstick spray. This keeps the rice from sticking to the bottom and makes cleanup easier. Now you’re ready to build your casserole right in the dish—no need for extra pans.
Step 3: Mix Rice and Soups
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 2 cups Minute rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups water or broth
Stir until everything is well combined. If you want to save dishes, you can mix this directly in the baking dish, but a bowl gives you a more even consistency.
Once mixed, pour it evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Place Chicken Over the Mixture
Lay the chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. Press them down slightly so they’re nestled in but not fully submerged. This allows them to cook evenly while still staying juicy on top.
Step 5: Sprinkle Onion Soup Mix
Now for the flavor bomb: sprinkle the entire packet of dry onion soup mix over the top of the chicken. Don’t stir it in—just scatter it evenly over everything. This adds a salty, savory, oniony crust that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Now comes the magic part—cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps in all the steam, helping the rice cook properly and keeping the chicken juicy. Make sure there are no gaps in the foil. You want a tight seal so the heat and moisture stay where they belong.
Once it’s covered, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Yes, a whole hour. But don’t worry—you’re not doing anything during that time. This is where the “forgotten” part kicks in. Go fold laundry, binge a show, help with homework, or scroll endlessly on your phone. Just don’t open the oven!
Step 7: Remove Foil for Final Browning
After an hour, carefully remove the foil and let the dish bake for another 10–15 minutes uncovered. This step helps the top brown slightly and gives the onion soup mix a little texture. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on now so it can melt into a gooey, golden crust.
Keep an eye on it—you want the top to look bubbly and slightly golden, not dried out.
Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once it’s done baking, pull it out and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This gives the rice time to firm up and the flavors to settle. Trust us—this short wait makes a big difference. Scoop it out with a big spoon and serve up a hearty plate of creamy rice and juicy chicken.
Boom. Dinner = done.
Pro Tips for Perfect Forgotten Chicken
Even though this is a no-fuss recipe, a few smart tips can take your Forgotten Chicken from good to absolutely epic:
- Always use Minute Rice. This recipe depends on the quick-cooking nature of instant rice. Regular rice won’t cook properly and will leave you with a soggy or crunchy mess.
- Chicken breasts too big? Pound them out or slice them in half lengthwise to help them cook evenly and avoid drying out.
- Use chicken broth instead of water. It boosts flavor and makes the rice extra savory.
- Check seasoning. The soups and onion mix add salt, but you can sprinkle in garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper to suit your taste.
- Let it rest. Don’t skip the resting time. It gives the dish a better texture and makes serving cleaner and easier.
- Add cheese at the right time. If you want a cheesy top, only add it during the last 10–15 minutes or it’ll melt into the mixture and disappear.
Follow these, and you’ll be making Forgotten Chicken like a seasoned pro every time.
Variations You Can Try
One of the reasons Forgotten Chicken has stayed so popular is that it’s endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
Spicy Kick:
- Add Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the soup mixture for some heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese on top for extra spice.
Veggie-Loaded:
- Stir in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn.
- Add fresh chopped broccoli or spinach to make it a more well-rounded meal.
Soup Swaps:
- Don’t like mushrooms? Use cream of celery, cream of onion, or even cheddar cheese soup instead.
- You can also double up on cream of chicken if you want a consistent flavor base.
Different Meats:
- Try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Leftover shredded rotisserie chicken? Stir it into the rice mix and reduce baking time to 35–40 minutes.
Crunchy Topping:
- Add crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions during the last 10 minutes for a crunchy finish.
Let your fridge inspire you—this recipe is forgiving and flexible. That’s the beauty of a classic casserole.
What to Serve with Forgotten Chicken
While this dish is filling on its own, adding a side or two really rounds out the meal. Here are some easy pairings:
Fresh Sides:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness
- Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
- A light coleslaw for crunch
Bread:
- Soft dinner rolls or warm buttered biscuits
- Garlic bread for an indulgent touch
Drinks:
- A glass of sweet tea, lemonade, or even a light white wine
- For kids, a simple juice or milk works great
This recipe plays nice with just about everything. Just don’t forget dessert—something light like fruit salad or vanilla pudding goes well with the creamy, savory main dish.
How to Store and Reheat Forgotten Chicken
Leftovers? Lucky you. Forgotten Chicken stores and reheats beautifully.
To Store:
- Let it cool completely before covering.
- Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
- Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
- For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Heat in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring between each until fully warmed.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth and reheat on low in a covered pan.
Pro tip: Add a little broth or water before reheating to bring back that creamy texture and prevent drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls. Avoid these common missteps:
- Using regular rice. This will throw off your cook time and leave the dish undercooked or gummy.
- Not covering tightly. Loose foil lets steam escape, drying out your rice and chicken.
- Undercooked chicken. Always check internal temp—should be 165°F in the thickest part.
- Overbaking. Going too long dries out the chicken and burns the rice. Stick to the timing!
- Not greasing the dish. It may not seem like a big deal, but it’ll save your rice from sticking.
Now that you know what not to do, you’re even more prepared to nail it.
FAQs about Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Can I make Forgotten Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cook time. Bone-in pieces will take longer—closer to 90 minutes total—and may make the rice a bit mushier.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in the same order and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours. Instant rice is still recommended for consistent texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free versions of the soup and soup mix. Always check labels carefully.
How do I make this creamier?
Add a little more soup or a splash of milk before baking. A bit of shredded cheese in the rice mix will also up the creaminess factor.
Conclusion
Forgotten Chicken is the hero dinner we all need in our back pocket. It’s the kind of meal that practically makes itself but delivers big on flavor, comfort, and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for yourself, it’s a guaranteed hit. Plus, the possibilities for variations mean you’ll never get bored of it.
So next time you’re wondering what to make without spending hours in the kitchen, just remember—this dish was made to be forgotten. Go ahead, give it a try tonight. You won’t regret it.
