The aroma of baked chicken enveloped in creamy cheese and crisp ham has a way of making anyone feel at home. Imagine a dish that combines the heartiness of Chicken Cordon Bleu with the comforting embrace of a casserole—a true culinary hug for your taste buds. butter swim biscuits with ham and cheese This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bursting with flavor, nostalgia, and perhaps a sprinkle of chaos you might find in any bustling kitchen.
Picture this: a family gathering where laughter fills the air, and everyone is eagerly waiting for that golden-brown casserole to emerge from the oven. Memories of childhood dinners flood back as you slice into this masterpiece, revealing layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese. Perfect for cozy nights or festive occasions, this dish promises to be the star of your dinner table—just don’t forget to save some for leftovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its rich flavor profile will keep everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds).
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and melty cheese, it looks as good as it tastes.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Sliced Ham: Use any variety you like; smoked ham adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: Go for shredded Swiss cheese; it melts beautifully and complements the dish perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy topping; panko works great too!
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess; half-and-half can be used if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that amps up the flavor without overwhelming the palate. homemade taco seasoning tips.
For the Sauce:
- Dijon Mustard: Just a spoonful adds a tangy twist that perfectly balances the richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your courage (and ingredients). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so that nothing sticks—trust me; no one wants to wrestle with burnt cheese.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Season those boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You want them flavorful! Then chop them into bite-sized pieces because nobody likes wrestling with large chunks while trying to eat.
Step 3: Layer It Up
In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the chicken pieces at the bottom. Top them generously with sliced ham followed by half of that glorious Swiss cheese. Repeat this layering process again like building a cheesy fortress.
Step 4: Whisk That Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Dijon mustard until well combined. Pour this heavenly mixture over your layered goodness—it’s like rain on a parched desert!
Step 5: Add Crunchy Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This is where we get our crunch factor! If you want extra pizzazz, add some melted butter or olive oil over those breadcrumbs to make them golden and crunchy.
Step 6: Bake Away
Slide your casserole into the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. The anticipation will be real!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just a comforting dish; it combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese into one easy meal.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this casserole offers a delightful twist that everyone will love.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, start by cooking the chicken thoroughly. While it cooks, prepare your pasta and sauce simultaneously. This multitasking keeps everything fresh and flavorful, ensuring that your casserole bakes to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your casserole! Swap out chicken for turkey or use different cheeses like Swiss or Gouda for a unique flavor. You can also add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to pack in more nutrients and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option while keeping an eye on it.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, ensure your chicken is evenly cooked by cutting it into uniform pieces.
- Don’t skip the sauce; it adds moisture and flavor.
- Lastly, let the casserole rest before serving—it helps everything meld beautifully!
Sharing this dish with friends at my last dinner party was a hit! The warm, cheesy goodness had everyone going back for seconds, making me feel like a culinary superstar right in my own kitchen!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
To make a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you will require chicken breasts, ham, Swiss cheese, and breadcrumbs. Additionally, gather cream of chicken soup, milk, and seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. blueberry cream cheese casserole You can also use herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. These ingredients come together to create a comforting casserole that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
How long does it take to cook Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Make sure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients in your baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake it as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a healthy balance. A fresh garden salad or garlic bread also complements the casserole well. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes make excellent options to round out your dining experience.
Conclusion for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:
In summary, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an easy and flavorful dish that combines classic ingredients into one hearty meal. By using simple components like chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, you can create a comforting dinner that appeals to the whole family. comforting ground beef recipe Whether you choose to prepare it ahead of time or serve it freshly baked, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy this delightful recipe any night of the week!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese into a comforting baked dish. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer and enveloped in a rich creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen, evoking warm memories with every bite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- 1 cup sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer half of the chicken in the baking dish, followed by half of the sliced ham and half of the Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder; pour evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for crunch; drizzle melted butter or olive oil if desired.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
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