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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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Looking for the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? Learn how to make it deliciously creamy with easy steps and tasty tips. Discover the recipe now!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 383 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is easy and requires just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. This simple yet hearty dish combines tender chicken savory ham, and melted cheese to create the perfect comfort meal. Here's what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – About 3 cups of cooked chicken, chopped or shredded. You can also use raw chicken if you prefer to cook it fresh, but pre-cooked chicken can save you time. Using chicken thighs is another great option for a juicier texture.

Ham – Use thinly sliced deli ham or leftover ham from another meal. Cut it into strips or cubes. The ham adds that signature salty, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. If you're looking for a twist, try using chicken Cordon Bleu casserole with stuffing to add a different texture and flavor.

Swiss Cheese – Traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu calls for Swiss cheese, which melts beautifully and adds that creamy, nutty flavor. You can substitute with Gruyère for a more robust taste or mozzarella for a milder option. If you’re aiming for a healthy chicken Cordon Bleu casserole, consider a reduced-fat version.

Cheddar Cheese – Adding cheddar cheese brings a sharpness and extra creaminess to the casserole. Feel free to use extra sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. You can also mix in some Keto-friendly cheeses if you’re making a low-carb version of this casserole.

Heavy Cream – For the creamy sauce that binds everything together, you’ll need about 1 cup of heavy cream. For a lighter, healthier version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

Breadcrumbs – To top off the casserole and give it that crispy, golden crust, use about 1 cup of breadcrumbs. You can opt for traditional breadcrumbs, whole wheat breadcrumbs, or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Mustard – A tablespoon of Dijon or yellow mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the richness of the cheese and chicken. It’s a small amount, but it really makes a difference in flavor.

Seasonings – To bring all the flavors together, you’ll need:

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of onion powder

1 teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Fresh Parsley (Optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, plus a little extra flavor.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

  • Before you begin assembling the casserole, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  • For this recipe, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Here's a helpful tip: to save time, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken as a shortcut! If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized cubes or strips for easy eating. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

  • Begin by layering your cooked chicken at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. For the best results, make sure the chicken is evenly distributed.
  • Then, place ham slices over the chicken, covering it completely. You can use thinly sliced deli ham or leftover holiday ham – just be sure it’s chopped into manageable pieces.
  • Next, add a generous layer of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. The melty cheese will bind everything together, creating that signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

  • In a medium-sized saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Now, here’s where it gets exciting – add a bit of mustard and garlic powder to elevate the flavor profile. These ingredients bring out the richness of the casserole without overpowering the other components.

Step 5: Pour the Sauce and Assemble

  • Once your sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the layers of chicken, ham, and cheese. Make sure it covers everything nicely.
  • Top with another layer of cheese—Swiss, cheddar, or a blend. This extra cheese will melt beautifully during baking and create a golden, bubbly top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Optional: Make It Crunchy

  • For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy interior.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):
  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 4% DV
  • Calcium: 20% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV
Keyword Chicken Casserole, Casserole Recipes, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner