Description
This Chicken Casserole with Mushrooms is a creamy, savory dish combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and smoky turkey bacon in a luscious sauce enriched with plant-based cheese. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual meals, it delivers a comforting, well-balanced blend of textures and flavors in one pan.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or button mushrooms recommended)
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cut into small strips
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Flavorings
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Cut the smoked turkey bacon into small strips to ensure even cooking and flavor blending.
- Sauté Aromatics and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent. Then add the smoked turkey bacon, cooking until slightly crispy and fragrant.
- Cook Chicken and Mushrooms: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring until all sides are browned but chicken remains moist. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they soften and reduce, releasing their rich flavors.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir gently as you add the plant-based cheese, allowing the mixture to thicken into a creamy sauce that coats all ingredients.
- Transfer and Bake: Move the mixture to a casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with additional plant-based cheese and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use fresh mushrooms for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to maintain juiciness.
- Spread casserole mixture evenly in the dish for consistent cooking.
- Fresh thyme or parsley add brightness without overpowering flavors.
- Allow casserole to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, mushrooms, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, creamy casserole, gluten free dinner
