If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table, look no further than Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This delectable recipe combines layers of juicy chicken, delicious ham, and gooey cheese, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is both easy to prepare and sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Fat: 16g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
3. In another bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham, and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter, mixing until crumbs are coated.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or use a different cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist. You can also replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers for added flavor and crunch.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-covered.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the chicken before adding it to the casserole.
– Ensure not to skip seasoning the mixture for flavor.
– Avoid using stale breadcrumbs, as they can affect the texture.
– Don’t rush the cooling time; it helps in serving.
– Make sure the casserole dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Helpful Tips
– Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
– Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
– For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños.
– Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade white sauce or any cream soup like mushroom or celery as a substitute.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use low-fat cheese, substitute whole milk with almond milk, and add more vegetables to enhance the nutritional value.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing in a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors that will surely become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with comfort, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing it with loved ones!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
- In another bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham, and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter, mixing until crumbs are coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!
