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Introduction
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a flavorful, simple, and hands-off recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. This dish is often made in a slow cooker or braised in the oven, making it incredibly easy to prepare yet deliciously rich in flavor. The name “Forgotten Chicken” comes from the idea that you simply prepare the ingredients, put them in the cooker, and “forget” about it while it slow-cooks to perfection. When it’s time to eat, you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy chicken in a rich sauce that’s packed with flavor.
Origin and Cultural Significance
“Forgotten Chicken” is believed to be a recipe popularized in American home kitchens, particularly for busy families or those looking for an easy way to cook a flavorful meal without much attention during the cooking process. The dish is sometimes associated with the 1960s and ’70s when slow-cooking recipes began gaining popularity due to the invention and widespread use of slow cookers (or Crockpots). Its simplicity and ability to “set it and forget it” made it a go-to recipe for busy home cooks.
The dish is culturally significant in terms of home cooking, as it reflects the growing trend of using slow cooking as a method to create hearty meals with minimal effort.
Ingredients Quantity
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or any preferred cream soup)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella) for topping
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary) for garnish
Optional Additions
- A can of cream of chicken or celery soup to change up the flavor
- 1/2 cup of sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish
- Sliced mushrooms for an earthy depth
- 1/4 cup of white wine or lemon juice for a touch of acidity
- A sprinkle of paprika for color and a subtle smoky flavor
- Cooked noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to serve the chicken over
- A handful of baby spinach or peas for added texture and nutrition
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Even though it’s called “forgotten,” keep in mind that slow-cooking chicken for too long can result in dry meat. Stick to the recommended cooking times to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
- Searing the chicken: While this step isn’t necessary, searing the chicken in a pan before slow-cooking can add additional flavor. Just brown the chicken in a bit of butter or oil for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Use high-quality broth: The broth plays a major role in creating the flavor profile. Opt for homemade or low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
- Check for seasoning: Depending on the ranch dressing mix and cream soup you use, the dish may need a bit of extra seasoning. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed.
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom.
- Pour the can of cream of mushroom soup over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the dry ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top of the soup.
- Add the chicken broth or water and place the butter on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- If desired, add shredded cheese to the top 10 minutes before serving and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if using and serve hot. Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, if desired.
Description
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a super simple and delicious slow-cooked dish where chicken is submerged in a creamy, ranch-flavored sauce. The result is a tender, juicy chicken that practically falls apart. The sauce is creamy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of tanginess from the ranch dressing mix and richness from the cream soup. The versatility of this dish makes it ideal for pairing with various sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and optional additions used.
Conclusion
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a great dish for busy individuals or families who want a delicious meal without spending much time in the kitchen. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and ease of preparation make it a perfect go-to recipe. Whether you make it in a slow cooker or in the oven, the results are guaranteed to impress.
Recommendation
For anyone looking for a delicious, hassle-free dinner, Amazing Forgotten Chicken is an excellent choice. It’s customizable, flavorful, and comforting. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a satisfying meal. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Although Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a rich dish, there are ways to make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Consider using skinless chicken breast, low-fat cream soup, and low-sodium broth.
You can also skip the butter or use a healthier alternative like olive oil.
For a more vegetable-packed dish, try adding fresh greens, such as spinach or broccoli, or serve the chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Enjoy the indulgence while also making mindful choices that align with your health goals.
Amazing Forgotten Chicken is a great way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
I hope this guide inspires you to try the recipe and make it your own!