Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, ham, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is traditionally made by rolling chicken around ham and cheese, then breading it and baking. The casserole version combines these flavors in a simpler and quicker way without losing that savory goodness. You still get the chicken, ham, and cheese flavors, along with a creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed works well)
  • 1 cup cooked ham (diced)
  • 2 cups Swiss cheese (shredded)
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (or homemade if you prefer)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)
  • 1 package of frozen egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Optional Add-Ins

  • Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can add great flavor.
  • Broccoli: For a healthier touch, add steamed broccoli.
  • Spinach: You can also throw in some spinach for extra nutrients.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, preparing it for that gorgeous casserole.

Cook the Noodles

Boil the egg noodles in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside.

See also  Garlic Lime Cashew Zoodles Recipe

Prepare the Casserole Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and ham.
  2. Add in the cooked noodles, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
  3. In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth.
  4. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken, ham, and noodle mixture. Stir until every piece is coated.

Add Cheese

  1. Fold in 1 cup of Swiss cheese into the casserole mixture.
  2. Spread this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
  2. Spread this breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Swiss cheese over the breadcrumbs for that cheesy goodness.

Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
  2. Look for a golden topping and bubble around the edges indicating it’s ready.

Rest and Serve

Once baked, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set a bit, making it easier to serve.

Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you want a shortcut, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this dish.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready. Just extend the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
  • Customize Your Cheese: You can mix cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Here are some suggestions:

  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a healthy pairing.
  • Side Salad: A fresh garden salad can lighten the meal.
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, fresh bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
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Storage Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • In the Freezer: You can freeze leftover casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking to reheat.

Variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Feel free to experiment with this recipe. Here are some fun twists:

  • Buffalo Chicken Version: Spice things up by adding buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture.
  • Vegetarian Cordon Bleu: Swap the chicken and ham for grilled veggies and a veggie-based cheese.
  • Using Different Pasta: Try using penne or rotini for different textures.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This casserole is rich in protein from the chicken and ham. Adding a side of vegetables boosts its fiber content and vitamins. If you swap out the cream of chicken soup for a healthier version, you can make it even better for you.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an easy and delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. Whether you’re hosting friends or having a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!