Are you ready to indulge in a warm and cheesy dish? This Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your answer for an easy weeknight meal. With tender chicken, tasty ham, and melted Swiss, each bite bursts with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare. Join me as I share this quick recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This casserole combines the rich tastes of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
These main ingredients form the heart of your casserole. The cooked chicken gives it protein. Diced ham adds a nice smoky flavor, while Swiss cheese melts perfectly to create a creamy texture.
Pantry Staples
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
These pantry staples bind everything together. Cream of chicken soup adds richness. Milk keeps the dish moist, and Dijon mustard gives it a slight tang.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Seasonings bring the dish to life. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Black pepper and salt enhance flavors, while dried thyme gives a hint of earthiness.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps cook the casserole evenly.
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little oil or butter. This prevents sticking.
3. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken with 1 cup of diced ham.
4. Add half of the shredded Swiss cheese to the mix. Stir until everything blends well.
Mixing the Sauce
1. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cream of chicken soup and 1 cup of milk.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
3. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
4. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Casserole
1. Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir it all together until it’s well combined.
2. Transfer this mixture to your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly for even cooking.
3. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with the rest of the Swiss cheese.
4. Sprinkle this breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbly edges.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get the best results, use a 9x13 inch baking dish. This size helps cook the casserole evenly. Grease the dish well to stop sticking. Make sure the oven is set to 350°F (175°C) before you start. This heat will brown the top nicely. Keep an eye on the casserole while it cooks. If the top gets too brown, cover it with foil.
Flavor Enhancements
You can swap some ingredients for more flavor. Try using cooked turkey instead of chicken. This adds a nice twist. For a different taste, use cheddar cheese instead of Swiss. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. They will make your dish more aromatic. A pinch of paprika can give it a little kick, too.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with simple sides. Steamed broccoli or a fresh salad work great. They add color and crunch. For a special touch, garnish the top with fresh parsley. This not only looks nice but adds fresh flavor. Serve it hot for the best taste!
Pro Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: Utilizing leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken can save you time and add flavor to your casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Add Veggies: Incorporating vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook.
Variations
Different Meats
You can switch out the chicken and ham in this casserole. Turkey makes a great option. It has a similar taste and texture. Simply replace the chicken with cooked turkey. Use diced turkey breast for best results.
If you want a meatless dish, try a vegetarian version. You can use hearty veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. These add great flavor and texture. You can also add some beans for protein.
Cheese Variations
Cheese is key to this dish's taste. Swiss cheese is traditional, but cheddar can work too. Cheddar gives a sharp, tangy flavor. You can also mix cheeses for a fun twist. Combining Swiss and cheddar creates a creamy, rich taste.
Using cream cheese can also add a unique creaminess. Try a blend of these cheeses for depth and flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Dietary Adjustments
If you're looking for low-fat options, you can make some simple swaps. Use reduced-fat cheese and low-fat milk. This helps cut calories while keeping the dish creamy.
For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers. This keeps the crunch without the gluten. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your needs.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, first, let it cool. I like to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps the flavors fresh. Place it in the fridge. It will stay good for about three to four days. When storing, make sure to label it with the date. This way, you won't forget when you made it!
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save your casserole for later, freezing works great! Before freezing, cool the casserole completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating Tips
Reheating your casserole can be simple. I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. This helps keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts and stir often to avoid dry spots. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use raw chicken? No, raw chicken is not safe for this recipe. Always use cooked chicken. This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and stays safe to eat. If you have leftover chicken, that works great.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge? Your casserole will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before placing it in the fridge.
Substitutions
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup? Yes, you can use other soups. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery work well too. If you want a lighter option, you can use a homemade white sauce. Just keep the flavor in mind.
Making Ahead
Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead. Just assemble the casserole but don’t bake it yet. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. It may take a little longer to cook.
This blog post covered a tasty casserole that combines chicken, ham, and cheese. We explored key ingredients like cream of chicken soup and pantry staples. I shared tips for even cooking and enhancing flavors. You can even swap meats or cheeses to fit your needs.
In closing, this dish is simple to make and great for meals. Whether you serve it fresh or as leftovers, it’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
