Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms the classic French favorite into a family-friendly casserole. Combining tender chicken, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe captures all the indulgent flavors of chicken cordon bleu without the fuss of individually breaded and rolled portions. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a warm, hearty meal. With its golden crust and creamy interior, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Simple to prepare and utterly satisfying, it’s a guaranteed hit for amateur and seasoned cooks alike. Whether served alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility, ease, and irresistible taste make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplifies a Classic: Offers all the flavors of chicken cordon bleu in an easy-to-make casserole.
• Creamy and Indulgent: The rich, cheesy sauce elevates this dish to comfort food perfection.
• Great for Leftovers: Makes a big batch, perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences with different cheeses or additional ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, thanks to its creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 490
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

• 2 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Creamy Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Make the Roux: Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden.
3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Top with the diced ham, then sprinkle the shredded Swiss and mozzarella cheese over the top.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken, ham, and cheese layers, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 4: Make the Topping

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley.
2. Sprinkle the Topping: Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Ingredient Background

The Proteins

• Chicken: Pre-cooked, shredded or cubed chicken provides a tender, juicy base. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
• Ham: Adds a salty, savory contrast to the chicken. Diced deli ham, leftover baked ham, or pre-packaged diced ham all work well.

The Cheeses

• Swiss Cheese: The signature cheese of chicken cordon bleu, Swiss adds a creamy, slightly nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with Swiss.

The Sauce

• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth that enhances the overall flavor.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Provide a subtle, aromatic base for the sauce.

Technique Tips

• Shred Cheese Fresh: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
• Layer Evenly: Distribute the ingredients evenly in the casserole dish for uniform baking and flavor.
• Let the Sauce Thicken: Cook the roux-based sauce until it coats the back of a spoon for the perfect consistency.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Casseroles: Divide the mixture into individual ramekins for personalized servings.
• Puff Pastry Topping: Replace the breadcrumb topping with a layer of puff pastry for a flaky twist.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture as a filling for halved bell peppers and bake until tender.

Additional Tips for Success

• Avoid Overcooking: Since the chicken and ham are pre-cooked, avoid baking too long to prevent the proteins from drying out.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, include steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms in the casserole layers.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: If reheating leftovers, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds and use almond flour in the sauce.
• Spicy Cordon Bleu: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Seafood Twist: Swap chicken with cooked shrimp or crab for a seafood-inspired casserole.

Freezing and Storage

• Store Leftovers: Place cooled casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the topping just before baking.
• Reheat Properly: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Lean Protein: Use skinless, boneless chicken thighs or turkey breast for a leaner option.
• Whole Grain Breadcrumbs: Opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs to increase fiber content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Potluck Star: Bring to potlucks or gatherings as a comforting, crowd-pleasing main dish.
• Holiday Feast: Pair with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or glazed carrots for a festive spread.

Special Equipment

• Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for even baking and easy serving.
• Whisk: Essential for making a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Pastry Brush: Useful for evenly spreading melted butter on the topping, if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time.

2. Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely. Gruyere, Havarti, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella work well as substitutes.

3. How do I keep the casserole moist?
Ensure the creamy sauce fully coats the chicken and ham. Adding a splash of chicken broth to the sauce can help retain moisture.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

5. Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, cooked pasta or rice can be added to the casserole for a heartier dish. Ensure the sauce fully coats the added starch.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for best results. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning.

8. How do I prevent the topping from burning?
If the topping browns too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil while it finishes baking.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a deliciously indulgent dish that brings the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu into a comforting and easy-to-make casserole. Its creamy sauce, savory ham, and melty cheese, combined with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, make it a meal everyone will adore. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Garnish with fresh herbs and pair with your favorite sides for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and impressive.

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