Looking for a cozy dinner option that packs a punch of flavor? This chicken cordon bleu casserole is the perfect choice! With layers of golden-brown chicken, smoky ham, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals, this casserole brings all the classic flavors of the beloved chicken cordon bleu into one delightful dish.
Ingredients
– 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced ham.
3. Stir in 1 cup of Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, and Dijon mustard.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and remaining Swiss cheese.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute cooked turkey for chicken, or use cheddar cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken cordon bleu casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the olive oil on breadcrumbs for crispiness.
– Ensure the casserole is fully heated through before serving.
– Use a shallow baking dish for even cooking.
– Measure ingredients accurately for best results.
– Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to set.
Helpful Tips
– Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
– Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
– Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the top is golden brown. You can also check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey, bacon, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or tofu for a unique twist.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. Mashed potatoes or garlic bread also make great sides.
Conclusion
This chicken cordon bleu casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining convenience with mouthwatering flavors. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting blend of chicken, ham, and cheese in every bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups cooked ham diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Stir in 1 cup of Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, and Dijon mustard.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and remaining Swiss cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley.