Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 5.5 cup shredded rotisserie chicken; 2 cup cubed ham; 4 tablespoon unsalted butter; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt (add more to taste); 1.25 cup shredded Swiss cheese (about 5 ounces); 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup Panko bread crumbs; 2 tablespoon butter, melted

Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Are you searching for a delightful dish that combines the flavors of chicken and ham in a creamy, cheesy casserole? Look no further! This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. With its crispy Panko topping and rich cheese sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

A Personal Story Behind My Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family often enjoyed the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that brought everyone together around the table. I remember my grandmother preparing it for special occasions, filling the house with warm, inviting aromas. As I grew older, I wanted to recreate that sense of togetherness but in a simpler, more accessible way. Thus, I crafted this casserole version, which not only retains those beloved flavors but also simplifies the cooking process. Now, I can share that same warmth and love with my family, and you can too!

What Makes This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe Special?

What sets this casserole apart is its ease of preparation without sacrificing flavor. Using rotisserie chicken and cubed ham means you can prepare this dish in no time. The creamy cheese sauce is an explosion of flavor, and the Panko topping gives a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, cheesy filling. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping meats. It’s the kind of dish that brings joy and satisfaction, making it a must-try for any home cook.

The Full Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

5 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups cubed ham
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt (add more to taste)
1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese (about 5 ounces)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Spread the shredded chicken evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Next, layer the cubed ham on top of the chicken.
For the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes dry and clumpy, stirring often to prevent burning.
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the Swiss and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the ham and chicken layers in the casserole dish.
For the Panko topping: In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This dish is delicious on its own or served over pasta or rice!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. If you’d like to add some color and nutrients, consider mixing in some peas, broccoli, or bell peppers. For those who prefer a twist, feel free to swap the ham for cooked beef or turkey. This recipe is not only a hit for dinner but also makes for fantastic leftovers the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, garlic bread, or cooked pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 8