Like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole wraps you in comfort with every bite. I've always loved the classic dish, but turning it into a casserole makes it so much easier to whip up on busy nights. The layers of chicken, ham, and cheese, all smothered in a creamy sauce, come together in a way that feels both familiar and exciting. Wait until you see the golden, crispy topping—it's the perfect finish.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting twist on the classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights. You'll love how easy it is to prepare, with layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese. The creamy sauce adds richness, while the crispy topping provides a satisfying crunch. It's a crowd-pleaser that brings all the flavors of the original in a convenient casserole form. Plus, it's versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting twist on the classic dish, combining juicy chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering all the flavors of the traditional recipe without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese. Mix well and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and ham in the baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
- Substitute Gruyère cheese for Swiss cheese if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving:
– Serves: 6
Calories:
– Approximately 420 calories per serving
Cuisine:
– American
Equipment
To prepare this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you'll need a few essential kitchen tools. Gather the following equipment to guarantee a smooth cooking process:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering)
Nutrition
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a hearty dish that combines protein-rich chicken with savory ham and cheese. Here's a breakdown of its key nutritional aspects:
- High in protein from chicken and ham.
- Contains calcium and vitamin D from cheese.
- Moderate in carbohydrates, depending on added ingredients.
- Can be high in sodium due to processed meats and cheese.
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals from optional vegetable additions.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this casserole with garlic mashed potatoes—it's creamy and comforting. Steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad add a nice crunch, while buttered egg noodles soak up all the cheesy goodness. Don't forget crusty French bread for dipping into the rich sauce!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Though it might seem like a side dish, garlic mashed potatoes can steal the show when paired with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. I love how the garlic benefits, like its rich flavor and potential health perks, elevate the dish. Using creamy potato varieties, such as Yukon Gold or Russet, makes them smooth and buttery. It's a comforting combo that feels like a hug on a plate.
Steamed Green Beans
Steamed green beans are a crisp, fresh addition that pairs perfectly with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, balancing its rich, savory flavors. I love using tender green bean varieties like haricot verts or snap beans, which hold their shape well. With simple cooking methods like steaming, they stay vibrant and slightly crunchy. I often toss them with a pinch of salt and lemon for extra zing—effortless yet delicious!
Buttered Egg Noodles
Buttered egg noodles are a comforting, creamy side that complements the bold flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole beautifully. I love how their soft texture balances the dish, and you can experiment with noodle variations like wide or extra-thin for fun. Optional sauce pairings, like a light cream or garlic butter, can take it up a notch. They're easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Crusty French Bread
When I'm serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, I always reach for a loaf of crusty French bread—it's the perfect side to round out the meal. The crispy exterior and soft inside make it ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce. I love using simple crust techniques, like misting the dough with water during bread baking, to get that golden, crackly crust every time. It's a game-changer!
Fresh Garden Salad
To complement the rich flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, I always pair it with a fresh garden salad. I toss together crisp leafy greens like romaine and spinach for extra crunch, then drizzle on a tangy salad dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette. Adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots makes it colorful and fresh. It's the perfect light side to balance the creamy casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Yes, I can use turkey instead of chicken for a turkey substitution. It's a great poultry alternative and works in similar recipes. I'll just adjust the cooking time since turkey can be slightly denser.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
I can definitely make this dish ahead of time for meal prep. It's a time-saving hack—assemble everything, refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready. Leftovers also reheat well, so it's perfect for busy days.
Can I Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
I've wondered if I can freeze it, like preserving a moment in time. Yes, I can! With proper freezing tips and storage methods, it'll hold its flavor and texture, ready to reheat when I need it.
What's the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
I prefer reheating leftovers in the oven at 350°F for even warming and to keep the texture crisp; microwave safety is fine for quick meals, but it can make some dishes soggy.
Can I Substitute Swiss Cheese With Another Type?
I'll cut to the chase—yes, you can swap Swiss cheese with other cheese alternatives. Gruyère adds a nutty twist, while mozzarella keeps it mild. Experimenting with flavor variations can spice things up and make it uniquely yours.
