Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of chicken cordon bleu casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all baked in a creamy sauce for a comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 410
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 1g
This is based on individual serving sizes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese.
3. In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard.
4. Add the soup mixture to the chicken and ham, stirring until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top of the mixture.
7. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese layer.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with turkey or use cheddar cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole grain breadcrumbs or low-fat soup.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
– Avoid overcooking the chicken before adding to the casserole.
– Ensure the sauce isn’t too thick; it should be pourable.
– Don’t forget to let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
– Avoid using stale breadcrumbs; they should be fresh for best texture.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
– Add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
– Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
– Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly while baking.
FAQs
Can I make chicken cordon bleu casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
You can use mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar cheese as a substitute for Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the top is golden brown. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Conclusion
Chicken cordon bleu casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese in a convenient casserole form. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for family meals, and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese.
- In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard.
- Add the soup mixture to the chicken and ham, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top of the mixture.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.