Introduction

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved classic, blending tender chicken, savory ham, and rich cheese for a delightful meal. When transformed into a casserole, it becomes a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

This casserole simplifies the original dish while retaining all its delicious qualities. With easy prep and minimal fuss, you’ll appreciate how this comforting meal can bring everyone together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Using cooked chicken allows for quick preparation while keeping the dish moist. Shredding the chicken also ensures it mixes well with the other ingredients.
1 cup sliced ham
Sliced ham delivers that signature flavor associated with traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu. Its saltiness complements the other ingredients and enhances the overall taste profile.
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
Swiss cheese provides a nutty, creamy texture that melts beautifully. Its flavor pairs perfectly with chicken and ham, delivering that classic taste in every bite.
1 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs act as a crunchy topping, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole underneath. They soak up some flavors while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
2 cups cream of chicken soup
This creamy base brings moisture and richness to the casserole, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. It ties all the ingredients together seamlessly.
1/2 cup milk
Milk thins out the soup slightly and adds creaminess to the dish. This will help achieve a smooth texture throughout the casserole and balance the richness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds depth of flavor without overpowering the dish. It enhances the overall savory profile, complementing both the chicken and the ham.
1 teaspoon paprika
Paprika introduces a subtle smokiness and color to the casserole, making it visually appealing and adding an extra layer of taste.
Salt and pepper to taste
These essential seasonings enhance the flavors of the dish. Adjusting them to your preference boosts the overall taste and ensures well-balanced flavors.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is essential for ensuring even cooking throughout the casserole. An appropriately heated oven helps the ingredients meld beautifully and achieve the right texture.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures. Each spoonful should have a bit of all the primary ingredients, creating a harmonious blend.

Step 3: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Evenly spreading the mixture helps with uniform cooking, resulting in a nicely baked casserole. Greasing the dish prevents sticking, making serving easier.

Step 4: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.

The breadcrumbs form a crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. Make sure they are distributed evenly to prevent any soggy spots.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Baking until bubbling indicates that the flavors are well combined, while a golden crust gives both texture and visual appeal. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Allowing the casserole to rest helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve. This step also enhances the overall flavor, giving it time to cool just enough for a perfect serving temperature.

Variations on the Classic Theme

While this recipe sticks to the traditional flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can easily customize it. Consider switching out the Swiss cheese for a sharp cheddar or adding some spinach for a green element. Different types of ham can also provide unique flavor twists, making every casserole a new experience.

Perfect Pairings with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

For a complete meal, serve this casserole alongside fresh green salads or steamed vegetables. The acidity of a vinaigrette or the crunch of a garden salad can balance the richness of the casserole nicely. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can soak up any remaining sauce, enhancing the dining experience.

Making Casserole a Family Affair

This casserole is not only delicious but also an excellent opportunity for family bonding. Involve kids by letting them help with the mixing or topping. Preparing the dish together can make mealtime more enjoyable and teach valuable cooking skills in a fun, interactive way.

FAQs

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use a homemade equivalent or substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.

How can I adjust the flavor if the casserole seems bland?

If the casserole lacks flavor, consider adding more spices such as onion powder or increasing the amounts of garlic powder and paprika to enhance the taste.

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked in this recipe?

Using raw chicken requires a longer baking time to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. It’s best to pre-cook chicken for this casserole.

How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach into the mixture can increase nutritional value, providing extra vitamins and minerals without compromising flavor.

Is there a way to reduce the richness without sacrificing flavor?

You can substitute part of the cream of chicken soup with lower-fat options or use a mix of Greek yogurt to lighten the dish while retaining flavor.

What can I do if the casserole is too thick?

If your casserole mixture is too thick, adding a bit more milk or broth can help create a creamier consistency before baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole not only celebrates the comforting flavors of a beloved classic but also offers a home-cooked meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s versatile and can adapt to what you have on hand, making it a practical choice for any occasion.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table, making it a treasured addition to your cooking repertoire.

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