1 Shares

When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I crave a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside. That’s when Forgotten Chicken comes into play—an old family recipe that never fails to evoke memories of cozy dinners around the table. The moment the oven opens, the rich scents of thyme and rosemary infuse the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood kitchen, where laughter and shared stories filled the space.

This dish effortlessly marries comfort and convenience, making it ideal for busy evenings when taking the time to cook seems daunting. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that promises juicy chicken enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests, this versatile recipe will win over even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the easy steps to make Forgotten Chicken, and turn your dinner into a cherished memory.

Why is Forgotten Chicken a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal effort and only basic cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone.
Rich, Savory Flavor: With the perfect blend of herbs and creamy soup, your taste buds will dance with delight.
Versatile Ingredients: Substitute with boneless chicken or your favorite cream soup to match your kitchen pantry.
Time-Saving: Pop it in the oven and let it do the work while you relax with family.
Family Appeal: It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together for a comforting meal, creating memories that last.
Elevate your cooking repertoire with this easy comfort food that’s perfect for any night!

Forgotten Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These provide juicy flavor and a tender texture; you can use boneless chicken and adjust the cook time for quicker preparation.
Olive oil – Essential for browning the chicken, adding richness; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
Salt and pepper – Key seasonings that enhance the overall flavor; remember to adjust according to your taste preferences.

For the Sauce

Cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess and umami flavor; for a homemade version, you can use a mushroom sauce or other cream soups.
Onion soup mix – Gives seasoning and boosts flavor; a homemade blend of dried onions and seasonings can serve as an excellent alternative.
Water – Hydrates the sauce base; using chicken broth can enrich the taste even further.

For Garnish

Fresh parsley – Brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh taste; feel free to swap it out with other herbs if desired.

This Forgotten Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and ease, making it an ideal addition to your culinary collection!

How to Make Forgotten Chicken

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step ensures your dish cooks evenly and throughout, transforming those simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.
Mix together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and water in a bowl until well blended. This creamy mixture is the heart of the dish, providing richness and depth to the surprisingly simple sauce.
Drizzle olive oil into a baking dish and season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. The oil will help create a lovely golden crust while enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in the dish and cover them with the soup mixture. This allows the flavors to meld as the chicken cooks, creating the delicious sauce you’ll savor.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. This steam-cooking technique keeps the chicken juicy and tender, preventing it from drying out while infusing it with flavor.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. The contrast of textures here—the tender meat with the crisp skin—makes each bite a joy.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley. This brief wait allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is packed full of flavor.

Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Forgotten Chicken?

Create a comforting meal that will wrap you in warmth and memories.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy taters soak up the savory sauce, creating a delightful harmony of flavors on your plate.
Steamed Green Beans: Their fresh, crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, adding a pop of color to the meal.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, this toasty addition elevates your dining experience.
Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich chicken.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs can soak up the sauce, making every bite a delicious blend of flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers caramelized in the oven add a sweet, roasted depth, complementing the chicken perfectly.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the meal with its bright acidity, elevating the savory flavors.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream brings a sweet ending to a cozy meal, embracing those heartfelt family moments.
Homemade Biscuits: Soft and flaky, they make a delightful side to enjoy with the sauce, embracing the homey essence of this dish.

Forgotten Chicken Variations

Let your creativity shine as you personalize this cozy dish to fit your family’s tastes!

Boneless Chicken: Swap out bone-in thighs for boneless breasts to cut down cooking time. Just remember, boneless will need slightly less time in the oven.
Creamy Alternatives: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try a cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce for a twist. The variations in flavor can bring a delightful surprise to the table.
Onion Swap: Use fresh diced onions instead of onion soup mix to embrace a more robust flavor profile; they’ll caramelize beautifully as they cook!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or tarragon; these can add aromatic notes that brighten the dish and elevate its comfort appeal.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the baking dish before covering with soup. Not only does this add color, but it also enriches the nutritional profile.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños before baking. This subtle kick can transform the comforting flavors into something adventurous.
Texture Twist: Top with crushed crackers or panko before the final baking stage for an irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Broth Swap: Use chicken broth instead of water to amplify the savory depth of your sauce. It’s a simple but effective enhancement that makes a world of difference.

These variations will help you explore different flavor palettes, ensuring every Forgotten Chicken dinner is a memorable occasion!

Expert Tips for Forgotten Chicken

Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This step ensures a crispy skin, lending a delightful texture to your Forgotten Chicken.
Check Cooking Time: Baking times may vary based on chicken size. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
Rest the Chicken: Don’t skip the resting step after baking. Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes helps the juices redistribute, maximizing flavor in every bite.
Add Fresh Ingredients: For a flavor boost, consider adding sliced mushrooms or onions to the sauce before baking. This not only enhances the taste but adds depth to your dish.
Herb Variations: Feel free to switch up the herbs; oregano or basil can bring a fresh twist to your Forgotten Chicken, aligning it with your family’s flavor preferences.

Make Ahead Options

Forgotten Chicken is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can mix together the creamy sauce and season your chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and water in a bowl, and store it alongside the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors to meld while keeping the chicken juicy. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just pop it in the oven (following the original cooking instructions), and in no time, you’ll have a comforting dinner that tastes just as delicious as if you made it fresh! This way, you can save time during busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Forgotten Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Forgotten Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Forgotten Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warmth.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This method helps preserve the chicken’s crispy skin and creamy sauce.

Make-Ahead: You can make this dish ahead of time, and it often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Just be sure to store it properly!

Forgotten Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Forgotten Chicken?
I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. However, you can absolutely substitute boneless chicken if you prefer, just be sure to reduce the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes to keep it tender.

How should I store leftover Forgotten Chicken?
You can keep leftover Forgotten Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out, ensuring those delicious flavors are preserved.

Can I freeze Forgotten Chicken?
Definitely! Frozen Forgotten Chicken can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C). This helps maintain the tender texture and creamy sauce.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken skin isn’t crispy, it could be due to excess moisture. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning, and ensure it bakes uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This will help achieve that beautiful, golden brown skin everyone loves.

Does Forgotten Chicken contain any allergens?
The main allergens in Forgotten Chicken are dairy (from the cream of mushroom soup) and gluten (if using a store-bought onion soup mix). For gluten-free options, you can make your own onion mix using dried onions and your favorite gluten-free seasonings. Always check labels for any other allergens that may affect you or your loved ones.