FORGOTTEN CHICKEN

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method will ensure that the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
• If you like, you can sear the chicken before baking to add a bit of extra flavor. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and sear them in the pan for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until golden brown. (This step is optional but recommended for extra flavor.)
• If you’re using boneless chicken, it’s not necessary to sear; simply season and move on to the next step.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup), ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth or water. Stir until the ingredients are well combined. The ranch seasoning mix will provide a tangy, herby flavor that complements the creamy texture of the soup.

3. Assemble the Dish

• Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish. If you seared the chicken earlier, just place them directly into the dish; if not, simply arrange the raw chicken in the dish.
• Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring that the chicken is well coated with the creamy sauce. This will not only add flavor but also keep the chicken moist during the slow bake.

4. Bake the Chicken

• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Yes, you read that right—this dish is meant to be slow-baked at a low temperature. The long baking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and soak up the flavors of the sauce.

5. Check and Serve

• After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the foil and check the chicken. It should be fully cooked and tender, easily pulling apart with a fork.
• If you’d like, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a bit of color and extra flavor.
• Serve the Forgotten Chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of steamed vegetables to complete your meal.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Choices: While chicken breasts are popular, thighs or drumsticks work especially well in this recipe. Dark meat chicken holds up well during long cooking times and remains juicy and tender.
• Adding Veggies: For a one-pot meal, consider adding some vegetables, such as sliced carrots, onions, or even potatoes, to the baking dish. They’ll cook right along with the chicken and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• Make It a Freezer Meal: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Simply assemble the chicken, sauce, and seasoning in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to cook, just defrost it overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed the next day.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with the soup before pouring it over the chicken. This will help the sauce hold together better when serving.

Why You’ll Love Forgotten Chicken:

This recipe is the ultimate in ease and comfort. It requires just a few ingredients, most of which you likely have on hand, and it doesn’t demand much active cooking time. You can prepare it in the morning, pop it in the oven, and forget about it until it’s time for dinner. The result is a creamy, flavorful chicken that is incredibly tender and full of savory goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or when you just need a break from complex meal prep.

Conclusion:

Forgotten Chicken is a foolproof recipe that allows you to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow-baking method creates incredibly tender chicken, and the creamy sauce adds richness and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking an easy yet satisfying dish. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a dish you’ll want to make over and over again. Enjoy!