You know those nights when cooking feels like an overwhelming chore? Enter the forgotten chicken recipe—a creamy, hands-off, and delicious one-pan dinner that will save the day. This dish, also known as No Peek Chicken or Chicken and Rice Bake, is a favorite for busy families, students, and anyone craving a hearty meal with minimal effort. It’s called “forgotten” because once you pop it in the oven, you can simply forget about it until it’s done. No fuss, no stirring, and absolutely no peeking!
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples like chicken breasts, Minute rice, cream soups, and onion soup mix, you can create a comforting dinner that feels like a hug in a dish. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a nostalgic dish that brings back childhood memories, this forgotten chicken recipe is your answer. And if you’re craving another quick chicken dinner, you’ll love this Veggie-Loaded Rotisserie Chicken Casserole for a wholesome twist.
Why Is It Called Forgotten Chicken?
The name “forgotten chicken” might sound unusual, but it perfectly sums up what makes this recipe a standout. Once you mix the ingredients and place the dish in the oven, you can walk away and “forget” it while it bakes to perfection. There’s no need to stir, flip, or check on it constantly, which makes it ideal for those busy evenings when you just don’t have time to babysit dinner.
The dish is also known as No Peek Chicken because of its signature baking method—covering the dish tightly with foil and resisting the urge to peek. The foil traps moisture and steam, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and the chicken remains tender and juicy. This technique guarantees perfect results every time. Moreover, the forgotten chicken recipe has stood the test of time as a comforting, retro favorite. Its simplicity, creamy texture, and savory flavors have made it a go-to meal for families across generations.
So, why do people love this dish so much? It’s because the recipe combines convenience and flavor in one pan. It’s a perfect blend of creamy rice, onion-infused seasoning, and tender chicken, all baked together effortlessly. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet delicious dinner, this forgotten chicken recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients for Forgotten Chicken Recipe
To create this delicious and easy forgotten chicken recipe, you only need a few simple ingredients. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry or fridge, which makes this dish even more convenient. Here’s what you’ll need:
Primary Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1 ½ cups Minute rice (white or brown rice works well)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix (for a rich, savory flavor)
- 1 can water (use the empty soup can as a measuring guide)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Optional Add-Ons for Customization:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (to add a cheesy topping during the final 10 minutes)
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, or broccoli) for extra nutrition
- Wild rice or regular rice (substitute for Minute rice, with slight cooking adjustments)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or black pepper for added flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can stick to the classic version or get creative by adding vegetables, cheese, or swapping in chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Not only does this dish require minimal ingredients, but it’s also perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy weeks.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Forgotten Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make your forgotten chicken recipe come to life. You’ll love how easy and stress-free this recipe is to prepare!
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of Minute rice, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 1 can of water (measured using an empty soup can). Stir everything together until well combined. Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, pour it evenly into the greased baking dish.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them directly on top of the rice and soup mixture. If you prefer using chicken thighs, they work just as well and add a bit more moisture to the dish. Once the chicken is evenly placed, sprinkle 1 packet of Lipton onion soup mix generously over the top. The onion soup mix is what gives this dish its signature savory flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Cover and Bake
Here comes the key part: cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is essential for locking in moisture and allowing the rice to absorb all the creamy goodness. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, avoid peeking! The foil helps trap steam, ensuring the chicken stays tender and the rice cooks perfectly.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
About 10 minutes before the baking time is up, carefully remove the foil (but don’t peek too early!). If you love cheesy casseroles, now is the time to sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and let the cheese melt to a golden, bubbly perfection. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Tips for Perfect Forgotten Chicken Every Time
To ensure your forgotten chicken recipe turns out perfectly every single time, here are a few essential tips:
- Use Minute rice for best results. It cooks quickly and evenly, absorbing all the flavors. If you use regular rice or wild rice, increase the water by about ½ cup and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Don’t skip the foil! Covering the dish tightly ensures the chicken stays juicy, and the rice cooks to the perfect consistency.
- Add veggies for a complete meal. Frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli can be stirred into the rice mixture before baking. This adds color, nutrition, and texture to the dish.
- Try chicken thighs for extra moisture. Thighs are a juicier alternative to chicken breasts and hold up well during long baking times.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, or Italian seasoning on the chicken before baking.
These simple tips will elevate your dish, ensuring it’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying every time.
Forgotten Chicken Recipe Variations
One of the best things about the forgotten chicken recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Cheesy Forgotten Chicken Casserole
Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the final 10 minutes of baking. The cheese melts to a golden crust, making this dish even more comforting.
2. Forgotten Chicken with Wild Rice
Swap out Minute rice for wild rice to add a nutty, chewy texture. Remember to increase the water and baking time to ensure the rice cooks through.
3. Creamy Chicken and Veggies Bake
Mix in 1 cup of frozen vegetables (like peas, broccoli, or carrots) with the rice and soup mixture before baking. This version turns the dish into a complete, nutrient-packed meal.
4. Forgotten Chicken Thighs
Replace chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender option. Thighs hold up well to the long baking time, absorbing all the creamy goodness.
5. Garlic Herb Forgotten Chicken
Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian herbs to the chicken before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Forgotten Chicken Recipe
The forgotten chicken recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans
- Warm, buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread for soaking up the creamy sauce
- For a cozy meal, pair it with this Easy Swamp Soup Recipe to add warmth and flavor to the table.
How to Store and Reheat Forgotten Chicken
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store leftover forgotten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.
- For larger portions, reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Why Forgotten Chicken Is the Perfect Dinner Solution
The forgotten chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy families, professionals, and students alike. It’s:
- Easy and hands-off: Minimal effort for maximum results.
- Budget-friendly: Made with simple pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add cheese, veggies, or swap proteins to suit your preferences.
- Comforting and flavorful: Creamy, savory, and always satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use regular rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the water and extend the baking time by about 20 minutes.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli are excellent additions.
Q3: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra moisture to the dish.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, the dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
Q6: Is There Different Ways to Cook Chicken?
Yes, chicken is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to cook it, each offering a unique flavor and texture. Here are some popular methods:
- Grilling – Perfect for a smoky, charred flavor. Use a grill pan indoors or an outdoor barbecue.
- Baking/Roasting – Bake chicken in the oven for juicy and tender results. You can season it with herbs, spices, and marinades.
- Boiling/Poaching – Cook chicken in water or broth for a healthy, soft texture. Great for soups, salads, or shredding.
- Sautéing/Pan-Frying – Cook chicken in a skillet with a small amount of oil or butter for crispy edges.
- Air Frying – A healthier alternative to deep frying. It creates crispy chicken with little to no oil.
- Slow Cooking – Use a crockpot or slow cooker to make fall-apart tender chicken for stews, casseroles, and tacos.
- Broiling – Cooks chicken quickly under high heat, perfect for crispy skin and caramelized edges.
- Steaming – A healthy method that keeps the chicken moist while retaining its nutrients.
- Smoking – Use a smoker for a rich, deep flavor. This method works best with bone-in chicken pieces.
- Stir-Frying – Cook thin chicken slices over high heat with vegetables for quick and flavorful results.
How Do You Make Chicken Taste Different?
If you’re tired of plain chicken, there are endless ways to make it taste exciting. Here are some ideas:
- Marinades:
- Combine acid (lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt), oil (or substitute with broth), and seasonings. Examples:
- Asian-style: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey.
- Mediterranean: Olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic.
- Spicy Kick: Hot sauce, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder.
- Combine acid (lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt), oil (or substitute with broth), and seasonings. Examples:
- Dry Rubs:
- Use a mix of spices to coat the chicken before cooking. Examples include:
- Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for smoky flavors.
- Curry powder, turmeric, and coriander for an Indian twist.
- Use a mix of spices to coat the chicken before cooking. Examples include:
- Sauces and Glazes:
- Add sauces or glazes while cooking or after. Popular options include:
- BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet finish.
- Teriyaki glaze for a sweet-savory Asian flavor.
- Pesto sauce for a fresh, herby taste.
- Add sauces or glazes while cooking or after. Popular options include:
- Stuffing Chicken:
- Stuff chicken breasts with cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for an elevated dish.
- Cooking Methods:
- Switch up how you cook it. For instance, grilling adds smoky flavors, while broiling caramelizes the surface.
- Use Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:
- Add rosemary, thyme, basil, cilantro, or mint to the chicken. Garlic, ginger, and onions are great aromatics that enhance flavor.
- Try World Cuisine Styles:
- Mexican: Use taco seasoning, lime, and cilantro.
- Italian: Add tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese.
- Middle Eastern: Use cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and tahini sauce.
How to Cook Chicken Gordon Ramsay Style?
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more easy dinner ideas?
- Try this Veggie-Loaded Rotisserie Chicken Casserole for a healthy twist.
- For a hearty pasta option, check out this Beefaroni Recipe.
- Craving seafood? This Greek-Style Roasted Branzino Recipe is simple and elegant.
Conclusion
The forgotten chicken recipe is the ultimate dinner solution—effortless, delicious, and perfect for busy nights. Its creamy rice, tender chicken, and savory onion flavor make it a family favorite. Try this recipe today, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please.