Description
This easy Chicken Casserole with Mushrooms offers a comforting and delicious dinner option, combining smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and hearty mushrooms. With simple, fresh ingredients and a rich, creamy sauce, it is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy meals. The casserole delivers a great balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 10 oz fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), cleaned and sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy & Sauces
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded or cubed
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Liquids & Thickening
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and chop the smoked turkey bacon. Clean and slice the mushrooms, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic to create a flavorful base.
- Cook the Bacon and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. Using the same pan, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown.
- Combine Chicken and Seasonings: Add the diced chicken to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken pieces are sealed and lightly golden on the edges.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir in the plant-based cheese and sprinkle the natural gelling agent while gently mixing until the sauce thickens smoothly, coating the chicken and mushrooms.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the crispy smoked turkey bacon on top, then finish with fresh chopped parsley and thyme. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and softly bubbling.
Notes
- Use fresh mushrooms for better texture and flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken before baking to maintain juiciness.
- Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of plant-based cheese to your preferred creaminess level.
- Season gradually and taste as you go for balanced, savory flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, mushroom casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, gluten free dinner, creamy casserole