Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining tender chicken, savory ham, fresh broccoli, and creamy Swiss cheese, it creates a comforting meal that will please everyone. Its crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture and flavor, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce delivers rich flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Ingredients: This dish allows you to use rotisserie chicken and fresh vegetables, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this casserole is sure to impress your guests with its delicious taste and hearty portion size.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking dish: This size is ideal for baking casseroles evenly while providing ample space for layering ingredients.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for preparing the creamy sauce that binds all the flavors together.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency in your sauce without lumps.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole features a blend of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

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 Casserole

• 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)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your oven beforehand ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add grated garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in flour until combined; cook for about 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
5. Mix in Dijon mustard, stock powder, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let it thicken slightly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
– Add fresh broccoli florets, cooked chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese.
– Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the dish.

Step 5: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl:
– Combine Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
– Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.

Enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole hot from the oven!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful experience that brings comfort food to the table. This dish is rich and creamy, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
• Chives for a kick: Chopped chives complement the flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar salad: The crunchiness of romaine and croutons balances the creaminess of the casserole.
• Mixed greens: A light vinaigrette on mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast.

Paired with Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting addition.
• Dinner rolls: Soft rolls are great for soaking up the delicious sauce.

With Wine

• White wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the dish’s creaminess.
• Sparkling water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water cleanses the palate.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Creating the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking.

• Use rotisserie chicken: This saves time and adds flavor without extra effort.
• Pre-cook broccoli slightly: Steaming for a few minutes ensures it stays vibrant and tender after baking.
• Mix cheeses for depth: Combine Swiss with Gruyère or cheddar for added richness.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: A crispy topping contrasts well with the creamy filling.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes helps it set, making serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic are comforting and pair well.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh, crunchy texture to balance the dish.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a savory flavor and slight bitterness, enhancing your casserole’s richness.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crispness and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the casserole.
5. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with vegetables provides a nutritious and hearty side option.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is an excellent base to soak up any extra sauce from your casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor or texture.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to a bland casserole. Always taste your sauce before mixing in the chicken and ham.

• Boldly overcook the chicken: Using overcooked chicken can make the dish dry. Ensure your chicken is cooked just right before adding it to the casserole.

• Boldly forget the sauce: Skipping or skimping on the creamy sauce can result in a dry casserole. Make sure you prepare enough sauce for moisture.

• Boldly rush the prep: Not preparing ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion during cooking. Take time to chop and measure everything before starting.

• Boldly ignore cooking times: Cooking the casserole too long can burn the top or dry out the ingredients. Keep an eye on it and follow recommended cooking times closely.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• Stovetop: For small portions, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting dish that combines chicken, ham, broccoli, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs.

Can I use different cheeses for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute turkey for chicken to suit your taste preferences!

Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole easy to make?

Yes! This casserole is simple and quick, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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