Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining tender chicken, savory ham, fresh broccoli, and creamy Swiss cheese, it’s topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust that adds texture and flavor. This casserole is not only easy to make but also offers a comforting and hearty meal suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an effortless weeknight dinner, this recipe shines with its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering or potluck.
• Comfort Food Classic: With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole requires just a few essential tools. These tools help ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-sized baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
• Saucepan: Used for making the creamy sauce; a sturdy saucepan will heat evenly without burning the ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces without lumps, ensuring your casserole has a smooth texture.
• Mixing spoon: An essential tool for combining all ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, ham, broccoli, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk (skim or full cream)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chicken or vegetable stock/Bouillon powder
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Main Dish

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (uncooked)
• 4 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups diced ham
• 2 cups Swiss cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (fresh grated)

For the Topping

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, stock powder, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until thickened.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked broccoli florets, shredded chicken, diced ham, Swiss cheese, and half of the prepared sauce. Mix well until everything is coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top. In another bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for a crunchy topping.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and hearty meal that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to complement this flavorful dish.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere at the dinner table.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant presentation, scoop out portions into individual ramekins. This makes for a great option when hosting guests or special occasions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives. This adds color and a burst of flavor, elevating the overall presentation.

Pair with Salad

• Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Accompanied by Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

With a Side of Fruit

• Consider adding a fruit platter as a refreshing contrast. The sweetness of fruits like grapes or sliced apples complements the savory flavors of the casserole.

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How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use rotisserie chicken – This saves time and adds extra flavor to your casserole.
• Don’t overcook broccoli – Add it fresh and uncooked; it will become tender during baking while retaining its vibrant color.
• Opt for fresh cheese – Using freshly shredded Swiss cheese melts better than pre-packaged cheese.
• Adjust seasonings – Taste your sauce before combining with other ingredients and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Let it rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich, these potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the casserole.
2. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly seasoned green beans offer a crisp texture that complements the richness of the casserole.
3. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and brightness, making it a perfect match for this dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus – The earthy flavors of roasted asparagus add sophistication while being easy to prepare.
5. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies brings added nutrition and vibrancy to your meal.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory casseroles, providing balance in flavors.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity, cutting through creamy dishes effectively.
8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings summer vibes and is an easy side that everyone loves!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your sauce and chicken properly. A lack of seasoning can lead to a bland dish.

• Overcooking the broccoli: Be cautious with cooking time. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color.

• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good quality Swiss cheese. Low-quality cheese might not melt properly, affecting the texture and flavor.

• Not shredding chicken correctly: Ensure your chicken is evenly shredded or diced. Uneven pieces can cook at different rates, leading to inconsistencies.

• Ignoring the breadcrumb topping: Don’t skip or skimp on the Panko breadcrumbs. They provide a crucial crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Freeze in a well-sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• This casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Can I use leftover chicken in this casserole?

Yes! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time and effort.

What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?

You can use Gruyère or mozzarella cheese as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do you make Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce?

The sauce is made with butter, garlic, flour, chicken broth, milk, and Dijon mustard. Combine these ingredients until creamy and smooth!

Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese make it appealing even for picky eaters.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any meal. Its creamy texture and crispy topping make it irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using different types of meat! Try it out and enjoy a cozy dinner with family or friends!