Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Comforting Delight

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu and the convenience of a hearty casserole. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu date back to Switzerland, where it was traditionally made with veal, ham, and cheese, but over the years, it has evolved into a favorite across the globe, often featuring chicken as the star ingredient.

What makes Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole so irresistible? It’s the delightful combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, allowing you to prepare a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that promises to please your taste buds and warm your heart!

this …

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 slices of ham, chopped
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Casserole Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and chopped ham. Make sure the chicken is shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
3. Add 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese to the chicken and ham mixture. This will give the casserole a creamy and cheesy texture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will serve as the custard base for the casserole.
5. Pour the custard mixture over the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken and ham are evenly coated.

Preparing the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the olive oil or melted butter. This will help the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy when baked.
2. Add the remaining cup of shredded Swiss cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. This will create a delicious cheesy crust on top of the casserole.
3. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the oil or butter and the cheese is distributed throughout.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Pour the chicken and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese topping over the chicken and ham mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a uniform crust.

Cooking Process

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
2. To ensure that the casserole is cooked through, you can insert a knife or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
3. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.

Serving the Casserole

1. Using a sharp knife or spatula, cut the casserole into squares or rectangles, depending on your serving preference.
2. Transfer the portions to individual plates or serve directly from the baking dish.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
4. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

1. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
3. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain the crispy topping.

Tips for Success

• 

  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an absolute must-try! This recipe takes the classic flavors of the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu and transforms them into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese come together in a way that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to feed a crowd or to have delicious leftovers for the week ahead.

  When it comes to serving suggestions, this casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. If you want to add a little extra flair, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

  As for variations, the beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is its versatility. Feel free to switch up the proteins by using turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; Swiss is traditional, but a sharp cheddar or a creamy mozzarella could add a delightful twist. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.

  I encourage you to give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole a try! It’s not only simple to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you try out some of the variations? Share your thoughts and any tweaks you made in the comments below. Your feedback not only helps me but also inspires others in our cooking community to get creative in the kitchen.

  So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. I promise you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!

  ---

  Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

  This Chicken and Ham Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish featuring layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

  Prep Time20 minutes

  Cook Time35 minutes

  Total Time55 minutes

  Category: Lunch & Dinner

  Yield: 8 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 8 slices of ham, chopped
  • 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

  Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and chopped ham.
  3. Add 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese to the chicken and ham mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the custard mixture over the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the olive oil or melted butter.
  7. Add the remaining cup of shredded Swiss cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
  8. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  9. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  10. Pour the chicken and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  11. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese topping over the chicken and ham mixture.
  12. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  13. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
  14. Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  15. Cut the casserole into squares or rectangles.
  16. Transfer portions to individual plates or serve directly from the baking dish.
  17. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  18. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
  19. Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  20. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes.
  21. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

  Notes

  • For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
  • You can substitute the Swiss cheese with your favorite cheese if desired.