Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 5.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 2 cups cubed ham; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt ((add more to taste)); 1.25 cups shredded Swiss cheese ((5 ounces)); 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Are you looking for a comforting dish that the whole family will love? Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is here to save your weeknight dinners! This delightful casserole combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken, savory chicken ham, and gooey cheese, all beautifully layered beneath a satisfying topping of crispy Panko breadcrumbs. It’s a straightforward, one-pan meal that offers a burst of flavors in every bite.

Why is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole a family favorite?

Family favorites often boil down to easy preparation and familiar tastes, and this casserole hits the mark beautifully. With just five minutes of prep and a short bake time, you can whip up a hearty meal even on the busiest nights. Kids adore the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the flavor-packed combination of chicken and ham, reminiscent of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or some roasted veggies for a complete dinner. Whether you serve it solo or over rice, it's bound to be the star of your table. If you want to learn more about chicken recipes that delight, check out this guide for inspiration. You're guaranteed to have your family wanting second helpings!

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines savory flavors with creamy textures. Let's break down the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or even family gatherings.

Chicken and Ham

5 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
2 cups cubed chicken ham: This adds a delicious, meaty layer that complements the chicken beautifully.

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

For that rich and creamy cheese sauce, gather these essentials:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is the base of your sauce, bringing richness.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce.
2 cups milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can use any milk you prefer.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a tangy kick.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors wonderfully.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: A must for our flavor profile.
¼ teaspoon salt (add more to taste): Elevates all the flavors.
1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese (5 ounces): The star of the show!
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra cheesy goodness.

Panko Topping

And don’t forget:

1 cup Panko bread crumbs: These add that delightful crispy topping.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: Ensures the Panko toasts perfectly.

Now you're set to whip up a comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! Want to know how to make it? Check out the full recipe here.

Step-by-step Preparation for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious meal that will impress your friends and family, then Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the perfect dish for you! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delightful casserole that's layered with chicken, chicken ham, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping.

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, take a moment to gather all of your ingredients. This not only streamlines your prep but also prevents any last-minute scrambling. Here’s what you’ll need:

5 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups cubed chicken ham

For the cheese sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt (add more to taste)
1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

And for the topping:

1 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

You might want to get your oven preheating to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to save some cooking time later.

Layer the chicken and chicken ham

Once your ingredients are ready, it's time to start layering! In a 9x13 casserole dish (sprayed with cooking spray), create a generous base layer of shredded rotisserie chicken. Next, evenly distribute the cubed chicken ham on top. This layered approach adds depth to the flavor—trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!

Create the creamy cheese sauce

Now, let’s tackle that irresistible cheese sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter before adding the flour. Cook that mixture for 1–2 minutes until it’s nice and clumpy, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk, keeping it smooth. Add in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens. The pièce de résistance? Stir in your Swiss and Parmesan cheese until it's all melted and gooey. This is where the magic happens!

Prepare the Panko topping

While the cheese sauce cools slightly, grab a small bowl and combine the Panko bread crumbs with the melted butter. This topping adds that perfect crunch to your casserole. Mix them well and set aside for the assembly process.

Assemble and bake the casserole

Now that everything is prepped, pour that luscious cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and chicken ham layers. Finally, sprinkle your buttery Panko mixture on top. Bake uncovered for about 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. After removing it from the oven, let your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole cool for 5–10 minutes — patience is key!

There you have it! Now you can serve and bask in the compliments that come your way. Enjoy!

Variations on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Ready to mix things up? Here are two delightful variations on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that bring exciting twists to the table.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

If you adore the rich flavors of mushrooms, this variation is a must-try! Simply sauté fresh mushrooms and onions in butter, then mix them into the cheese sauce before layering it onto your chicken and chicken ham. The earthy notes from the mushrooms elevate the dish to gourmet status, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy weeknight dinner. Explore more on how mushrooms can enhance your cooking over at Mushroom Council.

Gluten-Free Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

For those following a gluten-free lifestyle, transformation is easy! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend, and swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. This ensures that everyone can indulge in this creamy, cheesy delight without worry. Check out some tips for gluten-free cooking on Celiac Disease Foundation.

With these variations, your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can suit any preference or dietary need, ensuring that it remains a loved family favorite!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

When preparing your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, don’t hesitate to customize it! Substituting chicken ham with turkey ham or even turkey bacon can add a unique twist. If you’re short on time, using a store-bought cheese sauce can work in a pinch—just enhance it with some garlic powder for depth.

To ensure a creamy texture, whisk the cheese sauce thoroughly and be careful not to overcook the casserole; you want it bubbly and golden brown! Pair with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For even more flavor, consider topping with fresh herbs like parsley before serving. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

For more tips, check out The Kitchn or Serious Eats for some great ideas on side dishes.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

When it comes to serving your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, the options are both delightful and versatile. Here are some fantastic ideas:

Fresh Salads: Pair the casserole with a crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast. The crunch of the romaine and the tangy dressing sync beautifully with the rich flavors of the casserole. Consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Steamed Vegetables: Bring in some color and nutrition by serving it alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus. These veggies are easy to prepare and add a wholesome touch to your meal.
Grains: If you're looking to make the dish even heartier, consider serving it over a bed of rice or pasta. Both absorb flavors and make for a satisfying meal that your friends and family will love.

For even more serving inspiration, you might explore dishes like simple garlic roasted potatoes or lemon herb quinoa that complement this casserole wonderfully. Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a breeze! You’ll spend just about 5 minutes preparing everything. It’s the perfect quick start for a busy evening.

Cooking Time
While your casserole bakes to bubbly perfection, it will take around 40 minutes in the oven. This is the time to sit back and relax—or whip up a quick salad!

Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This efficiency is key for those hectic weeknights!

For more tips on meal prepping, check out articles from EatingWell or Bon Appétit to streamline your cooking experience. Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Understanding the nutritional benefits of your meals is key, especially when enjoying something as delightful as a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Here’s a quick breakdown of its main nutritional highlights:

Calories

A serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole contains approximately 480 calories. This makes it a hearty option that can help fuel your busy day.

Protein

With about 36 grams of protein per serving, this casserole is a fantastic source of muscle-building nutrients, thanks to the combination of shredded chicken and chicken ham.

Sodium

While it's always important to monitor sodium intake, each serving of this casserole has about 900 milligrams of sodium. It’s wise to adjust seasonings to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

For more in-depth nutritional information, the USDA FoodData Central is an excellent resource for understanding individual ingredients' profiles. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQs about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic way to save time while making your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It adds a rich flavor and tenderness to the dish, making it even more enjoyable. Just shred the chicken as you normally would and layer it into your casserole dish.

What sides pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

You can elevate your dinner by serving your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with a variety of sides. Consider fresh options like a Caesar salad, steamed broccoli, or asparagus for a balanced meal. If you're looking for something heartier, serving it over pasta or rice can make the dish even more satisfying.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Storing leftovers is easy! Just cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For more tips on food storage, check out FoodSafety.gov.

Conclusion on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

In conclusion, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish. Its layers of chicken, chicken ham, and creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy Panko, make it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a simple salad or over rice for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy!