Introduction:
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with a modern twist! The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings together tender chicken, savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection in one delightful dish. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a cozy meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
– 8 oz. ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, fresh or dried
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 1/4 cups milk
– 1 can (10.75 oz.) cream of chicken soup
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham layers, making sure to cover completely.
- Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese over the soup mixture, creating a cheesy layer.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Panko bread crumbs, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set.
Variations & Tips:
– For a lighter version, try using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup.
– To impart some green, mix in some cooked broccoli or peas with the chicken and ham.
– If you prefer a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
– Leftover rotisserie chicken makes an excellent time-saver and adds depth of flavor.
– If Swiss cheese isn’t to your liking, you can substitute Gruyère for a nuttier profile or a mild cheddar for a more familiar take on the dish.
– As always, ensure you’re tasting and seasoning as you go to cater to your personal preference.
Serving Tips:
- Slice Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to portion out servings.
- Garnish for Presentation: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the casserole just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness. This adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
- Pair with Sides: Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with complementary sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. These sides balance out the richness of the casserole and add variety to the meal.
- Serve with Sauce on the Side: While the casserole is delicious on its own, you can also serve it with extra sauce on the side for those who want to drizzle more over their portions. This allows each person to customize their serving according to their preference.
- Presentation Matters: Use a spatula to carefully lift out each portion of the casserole and transfer it to individual plates. This helps maintain the integrity of the layers and ensures that each serving looks appetizing.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with foil or transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to prevent spoilage.
- Consume Within a Few Days: Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
- Freezing Option: While the casserole can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before baking to preserve the texture of the ingredients. Assemble the casserole as instructed but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the recipe instructions.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating frozen or refrigerated leftovers, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from drying out. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Refresh if Needed: If the casserole seems dry after reheating, drizzle a little extra sauce or broth over the top before serving to add moisture and enhance the flavor.
FAQs:
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this casserole?
- Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this casserole. Rotisserie chicken works particularly well and can save you time in the preparation process. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
- Can I substitute other cheeses for Swiss cheese?
- While Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can certainly experiment with other cheese varieties. Gruyere, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be used as alternatives to Swiss cheese, depending on your personal preference.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.
- What side dishes pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. Choose sides that complement the rich and savory flavors of the casserole.
Conclusion:
With its layers of tender chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy topping, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave your taste buds delighted. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of classic comfort with a modern twist!