Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of chicken cordon bleu casserole, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Your family will love this hearty meal that brings together classic flavors in one delicious casserole.
Ingredients
– 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups ham, diced
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Fat: 24g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced ham.
3. Add the shredded Swiss cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth to the mixture.
4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
7. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor. You can also use turkey instead of chicken for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using raw chicken instead of cooked can lead to safety issues.
- Not seasoning the chicken and ham adequately will result in bland flavors.
- Overbaking can dry out the casserole.
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soggy.
- Not letting it cool slightly before serving can make it fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Always preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Shred your chicken while it’s warm for easier handling.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make chicken cordon bleu casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with chicken cordon bleu casserole?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for dipping in the sauce.
Can I substitute the chicken with another meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey or even pork for a different take on this casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, it can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and storing it in an airtight container.
How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Conclusion
Chicken cordon bleu casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy filling and golden crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, this casserole is a winner for any occasion.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups ham diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Add the shredded Swiss cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth to the mixture.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
