Introduction
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, all baked together to create a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Base:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
Casserole Filling:
– 8 oz cooked ham, diced
– 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
– ½ cup milk
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Topping:
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people’s
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Base:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F.
– In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the cubed chicken to the skillet.
– Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder.
– Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-7 minutes.
– Remove the skillet from heat and set the cooked chicken aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and diced ham.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of milk, ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
– Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and ham, stirring to ensure all pieces are well-coated.
– Add the shredded Swiss cheese and chopped fresh parsley to the mixture, stirring to combine.
– Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare the Topping:
– In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
– Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the breadcrumb mixture, stirring until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Bake the Casserole:
– Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole.
– Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
– Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage:
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
– This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Variations:
– Consider adding other vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Preparing Chicken
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes helps ensure even cooking. Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before cooking to enhance flavor.
Sautéing
Sauté the seasoned chicken in olive oil over medium heat until it is no longer pink in the center. This technique helps lock in moisture and flavor.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine cooked chicken and ham with a creamy sauce mixture made of condensed soup, milk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisking ensures a smooth and well-blended sauce.
Incorporating Cheese and Herbs
Add shredded Swiss cheese and chopped fresh parsley into the mixture. Stir gently to combine, distributing the flavors evenly throughout the casserole.
Creating Toppings
For the topping, combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and melted butter. This mixture should be stirred until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated for a crispy texture when baked.
Baking the Casserole
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. This final cooking step is essential to develop a delicious crust and to heat all the ingredients through.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with other types such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda based on your preference.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheese all topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture. It’s a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings, providing both comfort and satisfaction in every bite. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also allows for creativity in ingredient substitutions or additions based on personal preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Consider incorporating your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers, to add nutrients and color to the casserole.
Cheese Alternatives
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, for a varied flavor profile.
Herb Infusion
Enhance the dish with additional herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill for a fresh and fragrant touch.
Spicy Kick
Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the chicken and ham with a mixture of mushrooms, zucchini, and other seasonal vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
Rice or Pasta Base
Layer cooked rice or pasta at the bottom of the dish before adding the filling to create a heartier meal that’s even more filling.
