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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and nourishing dish combining tender chicken, hearty wild rice, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based). Bursting with rich flavors and cozy textures, it is perfect for family dinners or meal prep on chilly nights.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Grains

  • 2 cups wild rice blend, rinsed
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup carrots, diced

Liquids and Sauces

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Dairy Alternatives and Binders

  • 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based)
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin) dissolved in warm water

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice thoroughly. Simmer it in 4 cups of chicken broth for about 40-45 minutes until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon: Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook it in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the chopped smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: In the same skillet, add diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until softened and fragrant. Add diced carrots and cook for an additional few minutes until tender.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, cooked chicken, crispy smoked turkey bacon, sautéed vegetables, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based), fresh thyme, and fresh parsley. Add the dissolved natural gelling agent and mix well to bind the ingredients together.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the wild rice initially; it should be tender with a slight bite to prevent a mushy casserole.
  • Cook the smoked turkey bacon until extra crispy for a delightful texture contrast.
  • Use enough chicken broth to keep the casserole moist but avoid making it soggy.
  • Add fresh thyme or parsley just before baking to keep the flavors vibrant.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking to set and make serving easier.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Chicken casserole, wild rice, plant-based cheese, comfort food, gluten free, hearty dinner

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/chicken-wild-rice-casserole/