The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is taking the culinary world by storm. This dish combines all the classic flavors of the traditional chicken cordon bleu but with a twist that makes it easier to prepare and even more delicious.
The casserole features tender chunks of chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all nestled between layers of creamy sauce and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your taste buds singing with every bite.
A Twist on a Classic Dish
Chicken Cordon Bleu has been a beloved dish for decades, but it can be time-consuming and tricky to prepare. This casserole version simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the flavors. By layering the ingredients in a baking dish, you can achieve the same delicious result with less effort.
The key to this dish’s success lies in the quality of the ingredients. For the best results, use juicy, tender chicken breasts, thinly sliced deli ham, and rich, creamy Swiss cheese. These simple components come together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
A Crunchy, Golden Topping
No casserole is complete without a crispy, golden-brown topping, and this one is no exception. A mixture of panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and aromatic oregano is sprinkled over the top of the casserole before baking. As it cooks, the breadcrumbs toast to a beautiful golden color and provide a satisfying crunch with every forkful.
The contrast between the creamy sauce, tender meat, and crispy topping is what makes this dish so irresistible. It’s a perfect example of how different textures can elevate a simple casserole into something extraordinary.
A Crowd-Pleasing Casserole for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next potluck, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be scaled up to feed a crowd.
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of flavor and irresistible texture, this dish is proof that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest.
Tips for a Great Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- When preparing this delectable chicken cordon bleu casserole, remember to include the shredded Swiss cheese, as it is essential for achieving the dish’s signature flavor. If you find yourself without cooking sherry, a sweet white wine can be used as a suitable replacement.
- To ensure the perfect texture, cook the pasta al dente, keeping in mind that it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole. Once the casserole is done, let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- If you want to save time on the day of serving, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re expecting guests.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 9 x 13-inch Casserole Dish
Ingredients
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp cooking sherry
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried thyme leaves
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack or sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
Casserole
- 8 ounces cooked chicken chopped approx. 2 cups
- 4 ounces ham diced approx. 1 cup
- 12 ounces small or medium-sized pasta cooked al dente
Topping
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, constantly stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 7 minutes. Allow the sauce to boil for 1 minute.
- Stir in the sherry, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, and pepper. Remove the saucepan from the heat and mix in the shredded Swiss and Monterey Jack cheeses until they are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- While preparing the sauce, cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions, being careful not to overcook it. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, ham, and the prepared cheese sauce. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until it is hot and the top is lightly browned.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Notes
- When cooking the pasta, be careful not to overcook it before adding it to the casserole. Drain the pasta when it is just al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
- To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts in this recipe.
- If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- If you plan on making the casserole ahead of time and freezing or refrigerating it, do not add the breadcrumb topping until you are ready to bake it.
- To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until it is heated through.
Nutrition
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.