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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender chicken, nutty wild rice blend, smoky turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. Enhanced with fresh herbs, aromatic vegetables, and a natural gelling agent for perfect texture, this casserole offers rich, inviting flavors perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it delivers a satisfying and balanced dinner everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 cups diced chicken breasts
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Grains

  • 1 cup wild rice blend

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), 2 tablespoons chopped

Liquids & Sauces

  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)

Dairy Alternatives & Binders

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, chopped
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wild Rice Blend: Cook the wild rice blend in seasoned chicken broth until tender but still slightly chewy, allowing the grains to absorb the savory flavors.
  2. Cook the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced chicken breasts with chopped smoked turkey bacon until the chicken is cooked through and golden, forming a sticky crust that locks in juiciness.
  3. Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics: Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant, building the foundational flavors of the casserole.
  4. Combine Ingredients and Add Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked wild rice, chicken, bacon, and sautéed vegetables. Stir in plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), fresh herbs, and the natural gelling agent to bind the mixture.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, sprinkle additional plant-based cheese on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden, about 25-30 minutes.

Notes

  • Use day-old wild rice if available for better casserole texture.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken during sauté to keep it moist after baking.
  • Season gradually throughout cooking to enhance flavor depth.
  • Allow casserole to rest a few minutes after baking to set perfectly.
  • For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, wild rice, creamy casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, gluten free, weeknight dinner

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