Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
If you're looking to elevate your dinner routine without too much hassle, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole might just be your answer. This dish marries the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese with a rich, creamy sauce that brings comfort to the table. Imagine a meal that's not only easy to prepare but also satisfies the taste buds of everyone around. You'll find the preparation straightforward, yet it holds a secret that transforms this casserole into something truly special. Curious about that secret ingredient or step? Stick around for the details.
Recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, combining all the beloved flavors in a convenient and easy-to-make dish. This casserole brings together tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It's the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the traditional taste with minimal effort and cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
To prepare this comforting dish, you'll start by creating a creamy sauce with cream of chicken soup and a few simple seasonings. Layer the cooked chicken and ham in a baking dish, then top with Swiss cheese. Pour the creamy mixture over the layers, sprinkle with a mixture of buttery breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a rich, satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layers, then top with the remaining Swiss cheese.
Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken. Consider using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping. You can customize the casserole by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for additional nutrition.
Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully. This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation.
Cooking Steps
Alright, let's get cooking!
First, preheat your oven to 350°F; it's like warming up the stage for our casserole's grand performance.
While the oven's doing its thing, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl, and try not to eat it with a spoon—it's for the casserole!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is the first essential step in ensuring your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole cooks evenly and to perfection.
You don't want to skip this part, unless you're aiming for a culinary experiment gone wrong! Set your oven to the magic number, and let it work its warm-up magic while you prep the dish.
This temperature is just right for baking casseroles, allowing the layers of chicken, ham, and cheese to meld seamlessly. Think of it like setting the stage for a delicious performance!
It takes a few minutes for the oven to reach the desired heat, so use this time wisely. Double-check that the oven racks are positioned in the center for ideal cooking.
Step 2. Mix Creamy Sauce Ingredients
As your oven warms up, it's time to focus on creating the creamy sauce that binds the casserole together. You'll need one can of cream of chicken soup, a cup of milk, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and half a teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine these ingredients, stirring until smooth. Imagine you're whisking away any weekday worries as this sauce comes together—it's like magic, but with fewer rabbits.
Mix thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps, because nobody wants a surprise powder bomb in their casserole. This creamy concoction is your flavor glue, holding everything together in delicious harmony.
Once that's done, pat yourself on the back—you're one step closer to casserole heaven!
Step 3. Layer Chicken, Ham, Cheese
Start by grabbing a greased baking dish, ready to layer your delicious ingredients. First, spread half of the cooked chicken evenly across the bottom; think of it as setting the stage for a tasty performance.
Next, add a layer of diced ham, letting the savory goodness pile up like a game of delicious Jenga. Now, sprinkle half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the ham—it's like a cheesy snowfall that'll melt into gooey perfection.
Repeat the layers with the remaining chicken, ham, and finish with the rest of the Swiss cheese on top. Imagine you're building a flavor skyscraper, each layer contributing to the final bite.
Step 4. Pour Sauce Over Layers
With your layered masterpiece ready in the baking dish, it's time to pour the creamy sauce over these delicious ingredients. Grab that delightful mixture you whipped up earlier with cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, and spices.
Carefully, pour it evenly over the chicken, ham, and cheese layers, letting it cascade like a deliciously thick waterfall. Make sure every nook and cranny gets its fair share of this creamy goodness; no chicken piece left dry, we promise!
Imagine each bite bursting with flavor as the sauce mingles with the savory layers beneath. This step is where the magic happens, so take a moment to appreciate your handiwork.
Don't rush, savor this moment before moving on to the next exciting step!
Step 5. Add Buttery Breadcrumb Topping
The final touch to your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is adding the buttery breadcrumb topping, which provides a delightful crunch contrasting the creamy layers underneath.
Start by mixing one cup of breadcrumbs with two tablespoons of melted butter. Make sure every crumb is coated, like a mini spa day for breadcrumbs! This buttery mix isn't just for show; it adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over your casserole, ensuring every corner gets covered. Don't worry if a few crumbs escape—consider it a sneak preview of the deliciousness to come.
Once your oven's ready, pop the casserole in and bake until the topping turns golden brown. Voilà! You've added that perfect crunchy crown to your masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that simplifies preparation without sacrificing flavor.
You'll love how easy it's to assemble, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and savory ham, while the melted Swiss cheese adds a rich, comforting touch.
Don't forget the buttery breadcrumb topping—it brings a satisfying crunch that'll have everyone coming back for seconds.
If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some veggies like broccoli or spinach for a nutritional boost. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies on the side.
Trust me, once you've tried it, this casserole might just become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Swiss Cheese With Another Type of Cheese?
You can definitely substitute Swiss cheese with another type. Try using Gruyère for a similar taste or go for something like mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just choose a cheese that melts well to maintain the dish's texture.
Is It Possible to Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs. Confirm all ingredients, like mustard or spices, are certified gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious, gluten-free version without compromising on taste.
How Can I Store Leftovers, and How Long Do They Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll last for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze them, use a freezer-safe container, and they'll keep for up to two months. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Can This Casserole Be Frozen for Future Meals?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for future meals. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to three months for ideal freshness.
What Can Be Used as a Dairy-Free Alternative for Cream of Chicken Soup?
You can replace cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative by using a blend of chicken broth, dairy-free milk, and flour. Combine them for a creamy texture. Add seasonings to mimic the original flavor.
