FORGOTTEN CHICKEN
Introduction
Forgotten Chicken, also known as “Amish Chicken,” is a heartwarming and flavorful casserole that has earned its place as a beloved comfort food. Despite its name, this dish is unforgettable, and it’s a staple in many family kitchens. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover the origins of Forgotten Chicken, explore its rich history, and provide you with a detailed step-by-step recipe to recreate this timeless classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Forgotten Chicken
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s gather all the essential ingredients you’ll need to make Forgotten Chicken:
For the chickens and Riice :
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of celery soup
1 packet onion soup mix
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional)
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cups French-fried onions (such as French’s or a similar brand)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Ensure the oven rack is in the center position.
2. Prepare a Baking Dish
Choose a large, oven-safe baking dish (9×13 inches is a common size) and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
3. Combine Soup and Seasonings
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, onion soup mix, water, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined.
4. Layer the Chicken and Rice
Place the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice.
5. Pour Soup Mixture Over Chicken
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring that everything is well covered.
6. Season and Cover
Season the chicken with salt and black pepper to taste.
If desired, you can add sliced mushrooms on top of the chicken for extra flavor.
7. Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the rice should be fully cooked.
8. Prepare the Topping
While the casserole is baking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the French-fried onions and sauté them until they become golden and crispy. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Set aside.
9. Add the Topping
Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven.
Sprinkle the crispy French-fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Spoon generous portions onto plates, making sure each serving includes chicken, rice, and a flavorful spoonful of the creamy sauce.
Tips for Perfect Forgotten Chicken
Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well for this recipe, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Rinse the Rice: If you prefer less starch in your rice, rinse it under cold water before adding it to the baking dish.
Mushrooms: While mushrooms are optional, they add a delightful earthy flavor to the dish. Feel free to omit them if you’re not a fan.
Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Variations: Some variations of Forgotten Chicken include adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the mix for added color and nutrition.
Conclusion: Rediscovering Forgotten Chicken
Forgotten Chicken may have a humble name, but it’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression. With its creamy, savory flavors and comforting aroma, it’s a classic comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, Forgotten Chicken is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
The nutritional content of Forgotten Chicken can vary slightly based on factors such as portion size and specific brands of ingredients used. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving of Forgotten Chicken made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and the ingredients listed in the recipe:
Nutrition per Serving (Approximately):
Calories: 350-400 calories per serving.
Protein: Each serving provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken.
Carbohydrates: You’ll find about 35-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving, mainly from the rice and the cream-based soups.
Dietary Fiber: Forgotten Chicken is not a significant source of dietary fiber, with around 1-2 grams per serving.
Total Fat: Each serving contains approximately 12-15 grams of total fat, with variations based on factors like the cut of chicken and use of butter.
Saturated Fat: This dish can have about 5-7 grams of saturated fat per serving, primarily from the creamy sauce and butter.
Cholesterol: The chicken contributes to the cholesterol content, with each serving containing around 70-80 milligrams.
Sodium: Forgotten Chicken can be moderately high in sodium, with approximately 800-900 milligrams per serving, mainly from canned soups and the onion soup mix.
Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as portion size and ingredient choices. The addition of mushrooms and variations in the brand of canned soups can also influence the nutritional content.
Health Considerations:
While Forgotten Chicken is a delicious comfort food, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are concerned about calorie and sodium intake.
For a healthier version, consider using reduced-sodium or lower-fat versions of cream soups or making your own cream-based sauce using healthier ingredients.
Adding vegetables to the dish can increase its nutritional value and add fiber and vitamins to the meal.
Enjoy Forgotten Chicken as an occasional indulgence and savor its comforting flavors as part of a balanced diet
Enjoy