This Forgotten Chicken Casserole is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy toppings all in one pot. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal without fuss!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you go about your day? I make it my go-to for lazy weekends. Just pop it in the oven and let it do the work—so simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Skin-on, bone-in thighs are perfect for this casserole as they stay juicy during baking. If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but keep an eye on cooking time, as they cook quicker.
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice absorbs the flavors well and provides a great texture. If you want whole-grain options, brown rice works too, but remember it takes longer to cook, so adjust your liquid and time accordingly.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a lighter option or dairy-free version, try a homemade version with coconut milk and mushrooms, or substitute it with cream of chicken soup if you prefer a different flavor.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. However, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Turns Out Creamy and Delicious?
The key to a creamy casserole lies in the right mixture of ingredients. Mixing the rice, soup, and broth creates the base. Make sure you stir everything well so the rice gets coated with the soup mix.
- Combine rice, soup, broth, onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Even spreading of the mixture in the baking dish prevents dry spots. This ensures that every grain of rice cooks up soft and fluffy.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Chicken Skin Crispy?
To achieve crispy chicken skin, it’s essential to bake uncovered towards the end. This helps render fat and crisp up the skin. Since you’re using skin-on thighs, start covered to keep the interior juicy.
- Bake covered for 1 hour to steam the chicken, then uncover for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Always check the internal temperature (165°F/74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
How to Make Forgotten Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 4 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour and 20 minutes to cook. You’ll be mixing, layering, and baking, culminating in a warm, cheesy casserole that’s sure to be comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, you can prepare the casserole.
2. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Next, pour the rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to make a nice base for your casserole.
4. Add the Chicken Thighs:
Carefully place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, with the skin side facing up. This will help keep your chicken juicy and flavorful while it cooks.
5. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Now, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese all over the chicken thighs. This will melt beautifully and add a deliciously cheesy top.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are moistened. Then, sprinkle this buttery mixture over the cheese on top of the casserole. It will give you a nice crunch!
7. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. This steaming step helps to fully cook the rice and chicken.
8. Finish Baking Uncovered:
After an hour, remove the foil and let the casserole bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken skin is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a little bit and makes it easier to serve. Now, enjoy your warm Forgotten Chicken Casserole with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use 2 1/4 cups of chicken broth instead of 2 cups, and bake the casserole for about 1 hour and 30 minutes instead of 1 hour. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken!
What if I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with an equal amount of cream of chicken soup or homemade mushroom sauce. Just blend 1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms with 1 cup of heavy cream and season to taste for a quick fix!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
