When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, cheesy casserole. And let me tell you, my chicken cordon bleu casserole is a true crowd-pleaser! Imagine tender, shredded chicken paired with savory diced ham, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table, with its irresistible aroma wafting through the house. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this casserole is a delicious blend of flavors that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation!
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful casserole. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that comforting, cheesy goodness we all crave!
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You can absolutely use rotisserie chicken for convenience—it’s a game changer when you’re in a pinch!)
How to Prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this scrumptious chicken cordon bleu casserole! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward and totally doable. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy masterpiece ready to bake in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese. You want to make sure everything is evenly distributed for that delicious flavor in every bite!
- Next, add in the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture will be creamy and oh-so-inviting!
- Now, spread that glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×13-inch dish for this recipe, but you can adjust based on what you have. Just make sure it’s evenly spread out!
- Finally, top it off with the breadcrumbs for that perfect crunchy topping. It adds a nice texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells amazing and starts to brown slightly—trust me, the aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help everything set up nicely and keep that cheesy goodness intact!
And there you have it! You’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying a comforting, home-cooked meal that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Nutritional Information
So, before you dive into enjoying this delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole, it’s good to know a little about the nutrition facts! Just keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
These values will help you plan your meal, but don’t stress too much about the numbers—just enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of this comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty flavors that combine chicken, ham, and cheese in every delicious bite.
- One-dish meal means less cleanup, which is always a win!
- Can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers (if there are any!).
- Comforting and satisfying, it’s the ultimate cozy meal that warms you from the inside out.
- Versatile recipe—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this chicken cordon bleu casserole! Here are some of my best tips to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better your chicken, ham, and cheese, the tastier your casserole will be! If you can, opt for freshly cooked chicken and good-quality Swiss cheese.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Swiss cheese is traditional, don’t be afraid to mix things up! Cheddar, Gruyère, or even a bit of mozzarella can add delightful flavors.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re short on time, feel free to prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge before baking. This can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together!
- Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Chopped broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms can add a nutritious twist to this dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly!
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of the baking time. You want it bubbly and golden, but not overcooked! A quick poke with a fork can help you gauge if it’s ready.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before digging in. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a chicken cordon bleu casserole that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic! Happy cooking!
Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this chicken cordon bleu casserole! Here are a few ideas that’ll keep your taste buds excited:
- Cheese Swap: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you can absolutely mix it up! Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, melty goodness.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by tossing in your favorite vegetables! Chopped broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed bell peppers can add a pop of color and flavor while making it a bit healthier.
- Herbs and Spices: Amp up the flavor profile with fresh herbs or spices! A sprinkle of thyme, rosemary, or even some crushed red pepper flakes can give your casserole a delightful kick.
- Different Meats: If you’re not a fan of ham, you can substitute with cooked bacon or even turkey! It’s a great way to tailor the dish to your preferences while keeping that delicious combination of meats.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers on top. You won’t miss a beat with this tasty alternative!
- Make It Spicy: Love a little heat? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Casserole with a Twist: Try turning this into a pasta bake by mixing in cooked pasta for a heartier meal. Just adjust the baking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
With these variations, you can keep your chicken cordon bleu casserole fresh and exciting every time you make it! Get creative and find your favorite way to enjoy this comforting dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers from your chicken cordon bleu casserole! Trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite. Here’s how to store and reheat it so it tastes just as good as when it first came out of the oven.
First things first, if you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), let the casserole cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly to avoid any unwanted fridge odors!
If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then pop it into a freezer-safe container. It’ll be good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that delightful texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat it for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you want that crispy topping back, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to let it get golden and crunchy again!
And there you have it! With these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken cordon bleu casserole long after it’s first made. Yum!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful chicken cordon bleu casserole, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside it to create the ultimate meal experience! Trust me, the right sides can take your dinner from delicious to absolutely memorable!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. I love a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. It adds that nice crunch and balances out the creamy dish!
- Steamed Veggies: Bright, steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots not only add color to your plate but also provide a healthy touch. Toss them with a bit of lemon and olive oil for extra flavor!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness of the casserole and adds that comforting touch we all crave.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you want to go all out, serve your casserole with creamy mashed potatoes. They’re a classic pairing that adds to the heartiness of the meal!
- Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can be a fantastic base to soak up any leftover sauce from the casserole. It’s both delicious and filling!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole. The crunch and acidity can really brighten up each bite!
- Fruit Salad: For a refreshing dessert option, serve a light fruit salad after your meal. It’s a sweet way to end the evening without feeling too heavy!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’ll have everyone raving about dinner! Enjoy your feast, and don’t forget to savor each delicious bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: 7 Comforting Delights
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole that combines chicken, ham, and cheese in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute other cheeses if desired.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken cordon bleu casserole