Forgotten Chicken and Rice

Directions

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Rice: Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a small skillet, heat olive oil or melted butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Mix the Soups: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, dried thyme, paprika, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.

Assembling the Dish

5. Combine and Pour: Pour the soup mixture over the rice in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, making sure they are evenly spaced.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. The rice should be tender and the chicken should be cooked through and easily shred with a fork.
8. Add Vegetables (Optional): If using frozen peas or mixed vegetables, add them during the last 30 minutes of baking. Stir gently to incorporate.

Final Touches

9. Uncover and Crisp: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the chicken skin to crisp up and any excess liquid to evaporate.
10. Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Small skillet
• Large bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Tips and Shortcuts

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add about 30 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Rice Variations: Use brown rice or a wild rice blend if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time as these may require longer to cook.
• Chicken Options: If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or boneless thighs. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like sage or oregano for varied flavors.
• Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Forgotten Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

Forgotten Chicken and Rice pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For drinks, consider a light white wine, a crisp iced tea, or even a refreshing sparkling water to complement the dish.