Indulge in the rich flavors of chicken cordon bleu casserole, a dish that elevates the classic chicken cordon bleu into a cozy, easy-to-make casserole. With layers of succulent chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe combines convenience with deliciousness, making it a favorite for busy cooks. Let’s dive into the details of this hearty meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of fat, 30g of protein, 20g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Add in half of the Swiss cheese and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with the remaining Swiss cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute cooked turkey for chicken or use cheddar cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light white wine or sparkling water can also complement the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using raw chicken instead of cooked can lead to undercooking.
- Not allowing the casserole to cool can cause it to fall apart when served.
- Omitting salt can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soupy.
- Not greasing the baking dish can cause sticking.
- Overbaking can dry out the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Add vegetables like broccoli for added nutrition.
- Mix in herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or tofu for a different take on the dish.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using low-fat cheese and replacing heavy cream with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to two months. Just ensure they are in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Chicken cordon bleu casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu to a new level of convenience. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich textures and savory taste. Enjoy every bite of this hearty meal!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Add in half of the Swiss cheese and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with the remaining Swiss cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
