Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic French dish, featuring layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese baked to golden perfection. This comforting casserole is not only simple to make but also packed with flavors that will please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a hearty meal for the family, this dish is perfect. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the preparation and provide you with helpful tips, nutritional information, and much more. Get ready to create an amazing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup ham, diced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture will be the base of your casserole and provides the creamy, cheesy goodness that makes this dish so special.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure that all parts cook uniformly. Once the mixture is in the baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top to give the casserole a crispy, golden crust. Place a few pats of butter over the breadcrumbs to help them brown beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven reaches the right temperature, place the baking dish inside and bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly. The aromas of chicken, cheese, and garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 4: Let It Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy the layers of creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For added convenience, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It will save time and add extra flavor to your casserole.
2. Fresh Garlic vs. Garlic Powder: Using fresh minced garlic gives a richer, deeper flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use garlic powder instead.
3. Customizable Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar. Both options work well in this dish.
4. Breadcrumb Options: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor. You could also mix some grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs for a richer topping.
5. Add Vegetables: To make it a complete meal, consider adding some steamed broccoli or spinach to the casserole mix. It’s a great way to incorporate some greens without compromising flavor.

Benefits of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Protein-Rich: This casserole contains both chicken and ham, which provide a good source of protein to keep you feeling full and energized.
• Easy Preparation: The ingredients are simple, and the recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, thanks to its creamy texture and comforting flavors.
• Leftover Magic: This casserole tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy an easy, delicious meal later in the week.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. What side dishes go well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.

4. Can I substitute the ham with another ingredient?

If you don’t have ham or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with cooked turkey bacon or even omit it entirely for a chicken-only casserole.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines the classic flavors of the original Chicken Cordon Bleu in a simple casserole format. With tender chicken, savory ham, creamy cheeses, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is a family favorite that never disappoints. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to impress.

Try out this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe today, and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors in every bite! If you have any questions or want to share your version of the recipe, leave a comment below. Happy cooking!