Forgotten Chicken Recipe

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The name might be “Forgotten Chicken,” but once you taste it, this comforting casserole will be unforgettable. With just a few pantry staples and almost no effort, this classic Southern-style baked chicken and rice dish becomes a creamy, hearty, all-in-one meal the whole family will crave. It’s called “forgotten” because you simply throw it all together and bake—no babysitting required.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a fuss-free, oven-ready meal, this recipe is a time-saving treasure that delivers big flavor with zero stress.

Why Is It Called Forgotten Chicken?

Because once it’s in the oven, you can pretty much forget about it! This dish is baked low and slow, allowing the flavors to blend while the chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy. The rice absorbs all the savory goodness from the soup and broth, creating a rich, creamy base underneath the golden, seasoned chicken.

Ingredients for the Forgotten Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Breasts
Skinless and boneless preferred. Thighs stay juicy, but breasts work too for a leaner option.

Uncooked Long Grain White Rice
The foundation of the casserole—it cooks right in the pan and soaks up all the flavors.

Cream of Chicken Soup
Provides a rich, savory base. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or celery soup.

Cream of Celery Soup
Adds depth and a subtle herby flavor.

Chicken Broth
The liquid needed to cook the rice and keep everything moist.

Onion Soup Mix
The secret ingredient! Adds a punch of savory, oniony flavor with no chopping required.

Butter (Optional)
Melted and drizzled over the top for extra richness.

Fresh Thyme or Parsley (Optional)
For garnish and a touch of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Forgotten Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and chicken broth. Stir until fully blended, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs or breasts on top of the rice mixture in an even layer. Do not press them down—let them sit gently on top.

Step 4: Add the Soup Mix

Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken. If using, drizzle melted butter across the top.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to brown the top slightly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.

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Serving and Storing Forgotten Chicken

Forgotten Chicken is best served hot from the oven, when the rice is creamy and the chicken is tender and flavorful. Spoon generous portions into bowls or plates, making sure to scoop up the sauce-soaked rice from the bottom.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to rehydrate the rice. It also freezes well—just portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With Forgotten Chicken?

Steamed Green Beans

A fresh and crisp contrast to the creamy rice.

Roasted Carrots

Their natural sweetness balances the savory depth of the casserole.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Perfect for soaking up every drop of that flavorful sauce.

Garden Salad

Adds a light, crunchy contrast to the warm, hearty casserole.

Southern Fried Apples

For a sweet and tangy side that pairs beautifully with baked chicken.

Sautéed Spinach or Kale

A healthy, quick-cook veggie that complements the dish without overpowering it.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

If you’re looking for double comfort, this combo won’t disappoint.

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More Easy Baked Comforts You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of no-fuss oven dinners like this Forgotten Chicken, check out these cozy favorites too:

• Crispy Buttery Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy for the ultimate Southern-style crunch.
• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup to serve as a starter or a light main dish.
• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes that pair perfectly with this chicken.
• Southern Sweet Potato Casserole for an indulgent side you’ll want on repeat.
• Chicken Spaghetti Bake for another creamy chicken crowd-pleaser.

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📌 Love easy baked chicken dinners? Be sure to pin this recipe to your “Comfort Food” or “Casseroles” board so you can find it fast!

Tried this Forgotten Chicken? Let us know what you served it with—or if you added any twists! We’re always inspired by your spins on the classics.

Explore more classic dinners and weeknight lifesavers on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest.

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