Best Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Craving a Cozy Meal That’s Easy to Make and Totally Impressive?

Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of juicy chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all baked to golden perfection in a creamy sauce. Sounds divine, right? Well, get ready because this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is about to become your new go-to for comfort food that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to whip up.

Why You’ll Love It

• It captures the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavors you love without all the fuss of individual breading and frying.
• The creamy sauce is incredibly comforting and brings all the components together in perfect harmony.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any special occasion.
• Prep time is minimal, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal quickly.
• It’s highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite cheese, herbs, or vegetables.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole isn’t just another casserole recipe; it’s a clever way to enjoy the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu flavors in a streamlined, family-friendly format. Instead of rolling and breading individual chicken cutlets, we layer everything into a baking dish. This approach saves time without sacrificing any of the delicious taste. The creamy sauce, infused with Dijon mustard and a hint of garlic, takes this casserole to the next level, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Ingredient List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 8 oz sliced ham, diced
• 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded – Swiss provides a mild, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and ham.
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and diced chicken, diced ham, and half of the shredded Swiss cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, and gently stir to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, bread crumbs, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to add some extra pizzazz? Here are a few ideas:

• Crispy Onions: Sprinkle a layer of crispy fried onions over the top for extra texture and flavor. Add these during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid burning.
• Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary before baking for an aromatic twist.
• Extra Cheese: Add a layer of Gruyere or Fontina cheese to elevate the flavor and enhance the melty goodness.

Expert Tips

• Use pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!) to save time.
• Don’t overbake the casserole; you want the sauce to be creamy, not dry.
• Make sure the bread crumb topping is evenly distributed for optimal crispiness.
• If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the baking dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking, it makes it easier to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup? Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup as a substitute.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the bread crumb topping just before baking.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. It’s best to add the bread crumb topping just before baking for optimal crispiness.
• Can I add vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus. Add these to the chicken mixture before baking.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to put your own spin on this casserole? Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Garlic Lover’s Edition: Roast some garlic cloves and mix them into the casserole for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Different Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
• Herb Infusion: Try mixing in fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon to enhance the flavor profile.
• Crushed Crackers: Substitute bread crumbs with crushed butter crackers for a different kind of crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but here are some ideas to round out your dinner: serve it alongside a simple green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or some garlic bread. It’s also delicious with a side of mashed potatoes or rice. For a light and refreshing accompaniment, try serving it with a lemon vinaigrette dressing.

Conclusion

There you have it – a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that’s not only bursting with flavor but also remarkably easy to make. It’s the perfect recipe to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly comforting and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it with us! We can’t wait to see your creations! Consider subscribing to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Irresistibly Easy French Onion Soup
• Cozy Up with Delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Discover the Richness of Moroccan Soup

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips delivered straight to your inbox! Happy cooking!