Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu has always been a bit of a special occasion dish in our house – elegant, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying. But let’s be honest, sometimes you crave that comforting combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese without all the fuss of pounding chicken breasts and breading each piece individually. That’s where this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole comes in, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The first time I made it, my family devoured it. Even my picky eaters were asking for seconds, and the best part? It was surprisingly simple to throw together. This casserole captures all the deliciousness of classic chicken cordon bleu in a much easier, weeknight-friendly format. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite in your home, just like it has in mine.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: 3 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Provides the hearty protein base of the casserole.
• Cooked Ham: 8 ounces, diced. Adds a salty, savory counterpoint to the chicken and cheese.
• Swiss Cheese: 8 ounces, shredded. Offers a nutty, slightly tangy flavor that is characteristic of cordon bleu.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 2 (10.75 ounce) cans. Creates the creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup. Adds richness and a subtle tang to the sauce, balancing the flavors.
• Milk: ½ cup. Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency and adds moisture.
• Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons. Enhances the flavor profile with a bit of sharpness and depth.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Provides a savory aromatic note to complement the other flavors.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle oniony sweetness and depth to the overall taste.
• Dried Parsley: 1 tablespoon. Provides a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances the overall flavors of the casserole.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a subtle spice and depth to the dish.
• Bread Crumbs: 1 cup, plain or panko. Creates a crispy topping for texture contrast.
• Melted Butter: 4 tablespoons. Adds richness and helps the breadcrumbs brown and crisp up nicely.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly. While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving and cleanup much easier. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease the dish. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides of the dish evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Take your 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Uniformly sized cubes will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly throughout the casserole. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you might want to butterfly them first before cubing to ensure faster and more even cooking. Set the cubed chicken aside in a bowl.
3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the two cans of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of milk until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of soup or sour cream remaining in the mixture. The cream of chicken soup forms the base of the creamy sauce, while the sour cream adds richness and tanginess, and the milk thins the sauce to the perfect consistency for coating the chicken and ham.
4. Add Seasonings and Dijon Mustard: To the creamy soup mixture, add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk all these seasonings into the sauce until they are evenly distributed. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and complexity that elevates the flavor profile. Garlic powder and onion powder provide savory aromatic notes, while parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing all the flavors in the casserole.
5. Incorporate Chicken and Ham: Add the cubed chicken and 8 ounces of diced cooked ham to the bowl with the creamy sauce mixture. Gently stir everything together until the chicken and ham are evenly coated with the sauce. Ensure that every piece of chicken and ham is well coated to maximize flavor in every bite. The ham should be pre-cooked; you can use deli ham, leftover ham, or ham steaks diced into small pieces.
6. Assemble the Casserole in Baking Dish: Pour the chicken and ham mixture into the prepared greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish to ensure even cooking. This layer will form the base of your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
7. Top with Swiss Cheese: Sprinkle 8 ounces of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the chicken and ham mixture in the baking dish. Make sure to distribute the cheese evenly so that every part of the casserole gets a cheesy topping. Swiss cheese is the classic choice for cordon bleu, providing a nutty and slightly tangy flavor that complements the chicken and ham beautifully.
8. Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of bread crumbs with 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss the bread crumbs with the melted butter until they are evenly coated. The melted butter helps the breadcrumbs to brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful textural contrast to the creamy casserole. You can use plain breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
9. Sprinkle Breadcrumbs Over Cheese: Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the shredded Swiss cheese. Distribute the breadcrumbs across the entire surface of the cheese to ensure a consistent crispy topping. The breadcrumbs will bake to a golden brown and create a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy interior of the casserole.
10. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges, the chicken is cooked through, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the chicken cubes. You can check if the chicken is cooked through by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken cube; it should register 165°F (74°C). If the breadcrumbs are browning too quickly before the casserole is cooked through, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
11. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny. It also helps to distribute the heat evenly throughout the casserole, ensuring that it is perfectly heated throughout when you serve it.
12. Serve and Enjoy! After resting, your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is ready to be served. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This casserole is delicious on its own or served with your favorite side dishes.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal
• Fat: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes chopping chicken, dicing ham, shredding cheese, and mixing ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes (Baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes (From start to finish, ready to serve)

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is wonderfully convenient for busy weeknights. The active preparation time is minimal, mostly involving chopping and mixing, and the oven does the rest! It’s a fantastic option for a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

This versatile Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be served in various ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Sides:
  • Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side that adds freshness and color to the plate. Lightly steamed green beans with a touch of butter or olive oil complement the richness of the casserole beautifully.
  • Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese before roasting can add extra flavor.
  • Buttered Peas: A classic and comforting side dish that pairs well with creamy casseroles.
  • Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Consider a mixed greens salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.
• Starchy Companions:
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect pairing for the creamy casserole. They soak up the delicious sauce and add another layer of comfort.
  • Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf is a great way to soak up the creamy sauce from the casserole.
  • Egg Noodles: Buttery egg noodles tossed with parsley offer a simple and satisfying side dish.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any casserole meal. It’s perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Elevated Options:
  • Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Sautéed spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice adds a healthy and flavorful green element.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts, especially with a balsamic glaze, offer a slightly bitter and caramelized flavor that balances the richness of the casserole.
  • Creamy Polenta: Serve the casserole over a bed of creamy polenta for a sophisticated and comforting meal.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio would pair nicely with the creamy and cheesy flavors of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
• For a Lighter Meal:
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb option, serve the casserole over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Zucchini noodles provide a light and healthy base for the casserole.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a resounding success, here are some helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken cubes during baking. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Bake until the chicken is just cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using cubed chicken instead of whole breasts helps it cook faster and more evenly in a casserole.
2. Customize Your Cheese: While Swiss cheese is classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere, provolone, or a blend of Swiss and mozzarella would all work wonderfully. Using a combination of cheeses can add depth and complexity to the flavor.
3. Add Extra Flavor with Herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the casserole. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the casserole before baking or mix them into the creamy sauce. Fresh herbs add a bright and aromatic element to the dish.
4. Make it Ahead of Time: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole completely, up to the point of adding the breadcrumb topping, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed, possibly adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This is perfect for meal prepping or entertaining.
5. Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Secret: For an extra crispy breadcrumb topping, consider broiling the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet with butter before adding them to the casserole for even more crispness and flavor.
6. Use Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham significantly impacts the overall taste of the casserole. Use a good quality cooked ham for the best results. You can use deli ham, leftover holiday ham, or even ham steaks. Diced ham adds a salty, savory, and slightly smoky flavor that is essential to the cordon bleu profile.
7. Vegetable Boost: Sneak in some extra vegetables by adding sautéed mushrooms or onions to the casserole. Sauté diced onions or sliced mushrooms in butter until softened and slightly caramelized before adding them to the chicken and sauce mixture. This adds flavor and nutritional value.
8. Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick. A little bit of spice can balance the richness of the creamy casserole and add an exciting dimension to the flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different types of chicken for this casserole?

A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Chicken tenders, cut into pieces, would also work well and cook even faster. Ensure that whatever type of chicken you use is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Q2: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

A: Yes, with a few modifications! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands now offer gluten-free versions of cream of chicken soup. For breadcrumbs, you can use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or make your own by pulsing gluten-free bread in a food processor. Always double-check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if needed.

Q3: How do I store leftovers and how long will they last?

A: Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. Make sure to cool the casserole down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.

Q4: Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole, but the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, possibly adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time. Baked leftovers can also be frozen, but the quality may be slightly less optimal.

Q5: What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

A: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can make a substitute. A mixture of cream of mushroom soup and a bit of chicken broth works well. Alternatively, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or peas are all excellent additions. Sauté vegetables until tender-crisp before adding them to the chicken and sauce mixture.

Q7: How do I prevent the breadcrumb topping from burning?

A: If you notice the breadcrumb topping browning too quickly, loosely tent the casserole dish with aluminum foil during the last part of baking. This will protect the breadcrumbs from over-browning while allowing the casserole to continue cooking through.

Q8: Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

A: Yes, you can make some healthier swaps. Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Increase the amount of vegetables. Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for the topping. Serve with a large side salad to balance the richness of the casserole. You can also reduce the amount of butter used for the breadcrumb topping or omit it altogether for a less calorie-dense version.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings together classic flavors in an easy-to-make format. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!

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