01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prepares the base for your delicious Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole, ensuring easy cleanup and even cooking.
02 -
In the prepared baking dish, combine 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces), 1 and 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice, and 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn). Spread the ingredients evenly across the bottom.
03 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 and 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add salt to taste.
04 -
Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken, rice, and vegetables in the baking dish. Gently stir to ensure all ingredients are well coated and the rice is submerged in the liquid. This is crucial for a perfectly cooked Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole.
05 -
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. The foil helps steam the rice and chicken, ensuring everything cooks through and stays moist, preventing any dry spots in your casserole.
06 -
Remove the foil. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
07 -
Remove the Easy Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to finish absorbing liquid and the casserole to set. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh finish.