Introduction
There’s something truly special about coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty dinner that has been bubbling away in the oven. One such dish that encapsulates this warmth is Forgotten Chicken. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with creamy mushroom soup and fluffy rice, creating a mouthwatering meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. As it bakes, all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to bring a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor to your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white rice, uncooked
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom, creating a cozy bed for the chicken.
- Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the rice, skin side up. This will ensure a crispy finish!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and water. Stir until well blended and smooth, allowing all the flavors to marry.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice in the baking dish, covering them completely for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap in all the delicious steam while it cooks.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, letting the aromas fill your home.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add sautéed onions or garlic to the rice before adding the chicken. This dish also pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re short on time, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking option, though bone-in will yield more flavor!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of baking, which allows for even cooking and ensures that the chicken remains juicy while the rice absorbs the flavorful broth created by the soup and onion mix. The use of aluminum foil helps to trap steam and moisture, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.
FAQ
Can I use other types of rice? Yes! While this recipe uses white rice, you can substitute it with brown rice or jasmine rice. Just be mindful that you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier? Absolutely! Consider using low-fat soup and mixing in some of your favorite vegetables, like peas or carrots, for added nutrition.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare everything in advance, cover the baking dish, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Conclusion
Forgotten Chicken is a delightful one-pan meal that delivers on both flavor and ease. With minimal prep and maximum comfort food vibes, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household! Serve it up, enjoy the creamy goodness, and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!