Description
Chicken Bacon Bake with Mozzarella and Parmesan (plant-based) is a wholesome, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts layered with crispy smoked turkey bacon and melted plant-based cheeses. Enhanced with natural seasonings, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar, this easy-to-make bake delivers rich flavors with minimal prep, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella (plant-based), shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan (plant-based), grated
- 2 cloves garlic (natural), minced or finely chopped
- 1 tsp onion powder (natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Chopped spinach or roasted red peppers (for veggie boost)
- Crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (for spice)
- Plant-based sour cream (for creamier texture)
- Alternative cheese blend: plant-based cheddar and mozzarella
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and smoked turkey bacon: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts lightly with salt, pepper, garlic (natural), and onion powder (natural). In a skillet over medium heat, pour olive oil and cook smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set on paper towels to drain.
- Sear chicken: Using the same skillet, sear each chicken breast for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked. This locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
- Layer the bake: Grease a baking dish lightly. Arrange the seared chicken breasts in a single layer. Place two slices of crispy smoked turkey bacon on top of each breast. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella (plant-based) and grated parmesan (plant-based) over the chicken and bacon. Drizzle vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar evenly over the layers.
- Bake and finish: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes if desired. Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh basil leaves if using, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing to get a nice golden crust.
- Choose high-quality smoked turkey bacon for a well-balanced smoky flavor.
- Rest the bake after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for moist and flavorful bites.
- Adjust the amount of mozzarella (plant-based) and parmesan (plant-based) cheese to your preferred cheesiness level.
- Assemble the dish a few hours ahead and refrigerate covered until ready to bake.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; freeze cooked bake in freezer-safe container up to 2 months.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for best texture and flavor retention.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: chicken bake, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, easy dinner, family meal, comfort food, gluten free
