Description
This easy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish featuring smoky turkey bacon, tender chicken breast, nutty wild rice blend, and melted plant-based cheese. Enhanced with fresh vegetables, natural gelling agent, and aromatic herbs, it offers a warm, hearty meal perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
Grains
- 1 cup wild rice blend
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese (plant-based)
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or cubed
Liquids and Flavoring (natural)
- 2 cups chicken broth (natural)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon mixed herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, parsley)
Thickening Agent
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
Optional Garnishes and Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Toasted plant-based breadcrumbs or nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Cook the wild rice blend according to package instructions. Meanwhile, dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the celery and onion. Crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a pan and then crumble it into small pieces for even distribution.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a saucepan, sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and mixed herbs. Slowly whisk in the plant-based cheese and natural gelling agent until the sauce is smooth, thick, and creamy.
- Combine all elements: In a large bowl, mix the cooked wild rice, diced chicken, sautéed vegetables, and crumbled smoked turkey bacon. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and gently fold to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Bake until bubbly: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling with warmth and aroma.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken to save time and reduce waste.
- Do not skip the natural gelling agent as it ensures a smooth, silky sauce texture.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and for easier slicing.
- For added texture, sprinkle toasted plant-based breadcrumbs or nuts on top before baking.
- Ensure the wild rice is fully cooked and tender before assembling to avoid chewy bites.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Chicken casserole, wild rice casserole, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon casserole, creamy chicken dish, comforting casserole, gluten free dinner
