Looking for a mouthwatering dinner that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve guests? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, packed into a comforting one-dish meal. Inspired by the classic French dish, this recipe simplifies the process while retaining all the elegance and taste you’d expect.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s loaded with layers of shredded chicken, smoky black forest ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: No rolling or breading involved like traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu—just layer and bake!
- Versatile: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
- Comforting: Creamy sauce and crunchy topping make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild, cheesy flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips (about 9 slices)
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese (about 12 thin slices)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Nonstick cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer the Casserole
- Evenly spread the shredded chicken across the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Layer the black forest ham strips over the chicken.
- Place the Swiss cheese slices over the ham, slightly overlapping to cover the entire layer.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, salt, nutmeg (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the milk, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking after each addition to ensure a smooth consistency. Once all the milk is incorporated, let the sauce simmer for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the sauce evenly over the cheese layer, ensuring it reaches all corners of the dish.
- In a small bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs with softened butter until evenly mixed. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole as the final layer.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set.
- Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve warm.
Tips and Tricks
- Shortcut Tip: Use rotisserie chicken for an easy and flavorful shortcut.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or Provolone if Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs.
- Add Veggies: Include steamed broccoli or spinach between the chicken and ham layers for added nutrients.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigeration
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- Beverages: Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water infused with lemon.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the breadcrumb topping, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumbs and proceed as directed.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
You can shred chicken easily with two forks, a hand mixer, or by pulling apart cooked chicken with your hands.
Can I use pre-packaged shredded cheese?
While pre-shredded cheese works, slicing your own ensures better melting and texture.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the ultimate blend of ease and elegance, perfect for any occasion. Its creamy layers, savory ham, and crunchy topping are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones.
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