Description
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and effortless meal loaded with tender chicken, creamy plant-based cheese, and infused with savory natural flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, it combines fluffy rice, smoky turkey bacon, and fresh herbs in a single dish that is both indulgent and nourishing.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- Tender chicken breasts – 2 large, cooked and shredded or diced
- Smoked turkey bacon – 4 slices, chopped
- Plant-based cheese (semi-melting, cashew or almond based) – 1 cup shredded
Grains and Broth
- Long grain white rice – 1 cup, rinsed and soaked briefly
- Vegetable broth (natural) – 2 1/2 cups
Aromatics and Flavorings
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
- Natural gelling agent – 1 tablespoon, evenly sprinkled
- Seasonings: salt – 1 teaspoon, pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, paprika – 1/2 teaspoon
Herbs and Garnish
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons chopped
- Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics: Cook the chicken breasts until just tender, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. In a pan with a bit of oil, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent to create the savory base for the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients in a Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, mix the rice, cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Add the Natural Gelling Agent: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly through the mixture to achieve a creamy texture and help the casserole hold its shape after baking.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and inviting.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and thyme over the casserole before serving for a vibrant pop of color and fresh aroma.
Notes
- Rinse and soak the rice briefly beforehand for a fluffier texture.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté onions and garlic before adding enriches the overall flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set the creaminess perfectly.
- Cover tightly during baking to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, creamy chicken and rice, plant-based cheese, one dish meal, easy dinner, family-friendly, baked casserole
