Step-by-Step Instructions for Forgotten Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake your dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter. This will prevent the rice from sticking to the pan during baking and ensure a smooth, easy clean-up afterward.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the following:
Cream of chicken soup
Cream of mushroom soup
Water (use the empty soup can to measure)
Instant rice
Stir these ingredients together until they’re well blended, and the rice is evenly distributed throughout the soup mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the soup and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the pan.
Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. You can lay them flat or even season them with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
Step 5: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the chicken breasts. This seasoning mix adds depth of flavor and helps the chicken stay juicy while it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 to 1½ hours. You’ll want the chicken to be fully cooked through, and the rice should be tender. You can check for doneness by slicing the chicken to ensure there is no pink in the center, and the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.
Step 7: Optional Topping
For an extra touch of flavor, uncover the pan during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken breasts. Allow the cheese to melt and turn golden brown for a cheesy, bubbly finish.
Step 8: Serve
Once the dish is done, let it stand for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Then, serve your Forgotten Chicken and Rice directly from the pan for a warm, satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can make it even more filling by pairing it with some easy sides:
Fresh salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and rice.
Steamed vegetables: Add some healthy, lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
Crusty bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and make it even more satisfying.
Why You’ll Love Forgotten Chicken and Rice
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