As the crisp air of autumn rolls in and the nights turn nippy, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chowder to soothe the soul. This week, we're diving into a recipe that combines the rich, smoky flavors of bacon with the convenience of rotisserie chicken and a wild rice blend. It's the perfect dinner idea for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let's start by gathering our ingredients. You'll need a rotisserie chicken, which can be easily picked up from your local grocery store. This pre - cooked chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful flavor to the chowder. A ready - to - use wild rice blend is another key component. It brings a nutty, earthy taste and a lovely chewy texture to the dish. And don't forget the purchased roasted red peppers, which add a sweet and tangy note.

To begin the cooking process, start by frying some bacon in a large pot. The smell of sizzling bacon is enough to make your mouth water. As the bacon cooks, it releases its smoky flavor into the pot. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. The fat left in the pot will be used to sauté the onions and garlic. Chop up some onions and garlic and add them to the pot. Cook them until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor of the chowder.

Next, add the wild rice blend to the pot. Stir it around in the onion and garlic mixture to coat it with the flavors. Pour in some chicken broth. The broth will help to cook the wild rice and create a rich, savory liquid for the chowder. Let the wild rice simmer in the broth for a while, stirring occasionally. As the rice cooks, it will absorb the flavors of the broth and become tender.

While the wild rice is cooking, shred the rotisserie chicken. You can use your hands or two forks to pull the chicken apart into small pieces. Once the wild rice is almost cooked, add the shredded chicken to the pot. The chicken will heat up in the chowder and infuse it with its delicious flavor. Also, add the roasted red peppers. You can chop them up into small pieces before adding them to the pot. The red peppers will add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

Now, it's time to season the chowder. Add some salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for a bit of a spicy kick. You can also add a little bit of thyme or oregano to enhance the flavor. Stir the chowder well to make sure all the seasonings are evenly distributed. Let the chowder simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Just before serving, crumble the cooked bacon over the top of the chowder. The crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch and an extra layer of smoky flavor. To complete this weeknight - friendly supper, serve the chowder with chunks of warmed baguette. The baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich, creamy chowder. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.

This rotisserie chicken and wild rice chowder is not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides protein, the wild rice is a good source of fiber, and the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. It's a well - rounded meal that the whole family will love. So, the next time the autumn chill sets in, whip up this chowder and enjoy a warm, comforting dinner at home.

Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a group of friends and family, this chowder is sure to be a hit. It's easy to make, tastes great, and is perfect for those cozy autumn evenings. So, head to the grocery store, gather your ingredients, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!