Looking for a comforting dish that brings the family together? Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a savory delight your loved ones will crave. With tender chicken, rich ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, this easy casserole packs flavor and warmth. Ready to impress your dinner guests? Let’s dive into the simple steps and tips to make this classic dish a family favorite!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole uses simple, tasty ingredients. First, we have cooked chicken. It adds great protein and flavor. Next, we use diced ham for that classic taste. Swiss cheese melts beautifully and gives a creamy texture. Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crunch on top.
Heavy cream and chicken broth create a rich sauce. Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick. The garlic and onion powders bring out the best in the dish. Finally, we sprinkle fresh parsley for color and freshness.
You can find the full recipe above. Using these ingredients, you will make a cozy meal that your family will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Grease the baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Start by getting your oven ready. Preheating it ensures even cooking. Next, grease your baking dish. This step helps the casserole not stick. A 9×13-inch dish works best for this recipe.
Combining Ingredients
– Mix chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese.
– Whisk together cream, broth, mustard, and spices.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Stir well. In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will add flavor and creaminess to your casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
– Pour cream mixture over chicken and ham.
– Spread mixture in the baking dish.
– Prepare breading.
Now, pour the cream mixture over the chicken and ham. Stir until everything is well coated. Transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. This will give a nice crunch on top. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese and the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
Baking the Casserole
– Bake for 30-35 minutes.
– Cool before serving.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake it for 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly. After baking, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors settle.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
Expert Tips for Perfect Casserole
To make your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole shine, consider using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also adjust the types of cheese you use. Swiss cheese is classic, but feel free to mix in cheddar or gouda for a new twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the ingredients. You want to gently combine them, so they stay tender. Another mistake is not paying attention to baking time and temperature. Always bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes. Check for a golden top and bubbly edges to know it’s done.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, pair your casserole with sides like a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A light, crisp salad balances the rich flavors of the casserole. You can also serve it with roasted veggies. This adds color and nutrients to your plate. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change up the meats in your casserole. Try using turkey instead of chicken. Turkey gives a leaner option with a great taste. You can even use bacon for a smoky flavor. Just cook the bacon first, then chop it up.
If you want non-dairy options, you can use coconut cream or almond milk. These work well in place of heavy cream. You may need to adjust the amount of seasoning since these alternatives can change the flavor a bit.
Flavor Enhancements
To add some fun, try spices like paprika or cayenne. They give a nice kick to your dish. Fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can also elevate the taste. Just add them to your cream mixture or sprinkle on top before baking.
You can also sneak in some greens. Adding spinach or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also adds color. Just chop them up and mix them in with the chicken and ham. They will cook nicely in the oven and keep the casserole moist.
For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing.
If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
For the best taste and texture, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it. Bake for about 20 minutes or until warm.
The microwave is quicker but can make the casserole soggy. If you choose this method, heat it in short bursts. Check every minute until it’s hot. Enjoy your savory meal!
For the Full Recipe, check the linked section above.
FAQs
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a tasty dish that combines chicken, ham, and cheese. This dish is creamy and rich, perfect for family dinners. You get the flavors of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu but in a warm, comforting casserole form.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Just assemble it, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. You can make it a day ahead. If you want to freeze it, do not bake it first. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake.
How do I make it healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, you can use lean chicken and low-fat cheese. You can also reduce the heavy cream by using chicken broth or a low-fat milk option. Adding veggies like broccoli or spinach can boost nutrition without adding many calories.
What can I serve with it?
This casserole pairs well with many sides. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables work great. For drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon can complement the flavors nicely. Enjoy it with friends or family for a complete meal!
This blog post shared how to make a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients and the step-by-step process. We covered important tips to ensure your dish turns out great. You can also try delicious variations and know how to store leftovers correctly.
In the end, this casserole is easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy creating this dish at home and impress your family!
