If you’re looking for a comforting and effortless weeknight dinner, you’ve got to try this Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It is pure magic in a dish—combining tender chicken, creamy soup, and perfectly cooked rice baked all together for a simple yet satisfying meal. What’s amazing is how this recipe feels like it took hours but really comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days when you want something hearty without fussing over multiple pots and pans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in making this Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe so delightful. From the soups that create the creamy base to the rice that soaks up all those flavors, every element is essential to its classic appeal.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that stays juicy and tender baked right on top of the rice.
- 2 cups instant rice: Cooks perfectly in the casserole, absorbing all the rich flavors without needing pre-cooking.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Adds that signature creamy, savory foundation essential to the dish’s comforting texture.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: Brings a deeper, earthy flavor that balances the chicken soup beautifully.
- 1 can water (use soup can for measurement): Keeps things moist for cooking the rice right in the oven.
- 1 envelope onion soup mix: Packed with herbs and seasoning to give the chicken and the whole dish a savory boost.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Used for greasing the casserole dish to help everything slide out smoothly after baking.
- Optional – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole for extra richness and gooeyness.
- Optional – 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables: Adds color, nutrition, and a nice textural contrast.
- Optional – 1 cup diced cooked chicken: Perfect for stretching the protein and making the dish more hearty.
- Optional spices (black pepper, garlic powder, paprika): Customize the flavor to your liking with a little extra kick or aroma.
How to Make Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13 inch casserole dish a good grease with butter—that little step prevents sticking and guarantees your casserole will come out looking beautiful and intact.
Step 2: Mix the Soups and Rice
In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice until everything is blended well. This mixture forms the luscious base that will cook into a creamy, flavorful rice layer.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture in the Dish
Transfer the combined soup and rice mix evenly into your greased casserole dish. Smooth it out gently to create an even layer that will bake consistently throughout.
Step 4: Add Optional Vegetables or Cheese
If you’re adding frozen mixed vegetables or shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle or fold them in now. These additions not only boost the nutrition but also create wonderful texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Place the Chicken on Top
Lay the raw chicken breasts directly on top of your rice mixture. If the breasts are thick, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking and quicker baking time.
Step 6: Season with Onion Soup Mix
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken surface. This seasoning envelopes the chicken and seeps into the rice, adding savory depth and a hint of oniony goodness.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover your casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 60 minutes. Make sure not to lift the foil during baking because the trapped steam is what cooks the rice perfectly and keeps everything moist and tender.
Step 8: Check and Remove Foil
After an hour, carefully remove the foil. At this point, your chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the rice will be savory and creamy.
Step 9: Broil for a Golden Finish
If you want a golden top, switch your oven to broil and cook the casserole uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure it browns lightly without burning, adding a beautiful color and slight crispiness.
Step 10: Rest before Serving
Let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time lets it set and makes it easier to serve perfect, neat portions without falling apart.
How to Serve Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of green onions, or a little shredded cheese melted right on top can brighten up this classic dish and add a pop of freshness and color to each serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole is such a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or some roasted green vegetables gives lovely balance and variety to your plate. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy rice perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming dinner presentation, or layer it with a handful of crunchy fried onions on top for added texture. You could also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe store wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them covered tightly in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire casserole either before baking or after it has cooled. Wrap it securely with foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal option.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until piping hot, usually around 20-30 minutes, depending on quantity.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
You can substitute brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Using instant rice keeps the recipe quick and convenient, which is part of the recipe’s charm.
Is it okay to use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy, making for a deliciously moist casserole. Just watch the cooking time as thighs may cook slightly faster.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or add more vegetables. Just be sure to use vegetarian versions of the cream soups or make your own creamy base.
What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
You can substitute with a mixture of onion powder, garlic powder, dried herbs (like thyme or parsley), and a pinch of salt to mimic that savory punch.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for the oven, you can adapt it to a slow cooker by layering ingredients and cooking on low for 3-4 hours, but the rice texture may differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without stress. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed dinner without this cozy, creamy, utterly satisfying dish in your repertoire. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!
Print
Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy forgotten chicken and rice casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken breasts, creamy soups, and instant rice baked to perfection. With minimal prep and one-dish convenience, it offers a comforting meal that can be customized with cheese and vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups instant rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water (using the empty soup can for measurement)
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken (to stretch the protein)
- Dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent the dish from sticking during baking.
- Mix Soups and Rice: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and uncooked instant rice. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well blended.
- Transfer Mixture: Pour the soup and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables or shredded cheddar cheese if using. These add-ins will increase the casserole’s flavor and nutritional value.
- Add Chicken: Place the raw boneless skinless chicken breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. If the chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle Seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the envelope of onion soup mix over the chicken breasts, enhancing the savory depth of the dish.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 60 minutes without lifting the foil, allowing the rice to cook evenly and the chicken to remain juicy.
- Check and Remove Foil: After baking, remove the foil. Confirm the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the rice is tender and creamy.
- Broil for Crust: To achieve a golden browned top, broil the casserole uncovered for an additional 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve and enhances texture.
Notes
- Use white or brown instant rice depending on your preference; brown rice may require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Butterflying thick chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Do not remove the foil while baking to maintain moisture and ensure rice cooks properly.
- Optional add-ins like cheese and vegetables can make the dish more filling and nutritious.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a dash of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika on the chicken before baking.
