CHICKEN CORDON BLEU CASSEROLE

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings all the classic elements of the beloved dish into a convenient, one-pan delight. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can pair it with a fresh side salad, crisp broccoli, or warm crescent rolls for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Growing up, Chicken Cordon Bleu was a staple in our household. My mom would carefully prepare each chicken cutlet by pounding it flat, rolling it with ham and Swiss cheese, coating it with breadcrumbs, and frying it to golden perfection. While I cherished those meals, this casserole version captures the essence of the original dish but with a fraction of the effort. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy those familiar flavors with much less hassle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with minimal prep work.
• Combines the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a convenient casserole.
• Family-friendly and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Customizable with various side dish options.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Cooking spray

Ingredients

• 5 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups cubed ham

Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (add more to taste)
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese (5 ounces)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Panko Topping:

• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Layer the shredded chicken on the bottom of the casserole dish and then layer the cubed ham on top.
3. To prepare the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes dry and clumpy. Slowly whisk in the milk, then add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the Swiss and Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the ham and chicken layers.
4. For the Panko topping, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix well, then sprinkle the mixture over the casserole.
5. Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over pasta or rice.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cheese sauce is thickened enough before pouring it over the chicken and ham to prevent a runny casserole.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a hint of freshness.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• What can I use instead of Swiss cheese? Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as a substitute for Swiss cheese.

In conclusion, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic dish that’s sure to please your family and friends. It’s a great option for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your experience!