Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Rich and Savory Dish

Looking for a deliciously easy dinner? Try my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! This rich and savory dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, diced ham, and melting Swiss cheese for an amazing bite. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Stick around, and I’ll share all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this comforting casserole a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

To create a rich and savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, gather these ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded

- 1 cup ham, diced

- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)

- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup chicken broth

- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to make a comforting dish. The rotisserie chicken gives you flavor without much work. Diced ham adds a nice salty bite. Swiss cheese melts beautifully, binding everything together. The broccoli not only adds color but also nutrition.

Heavy cream and chicken broth create a rich sauce for the casserole. Dijon mustard adds a hint of tanginess. Garlic powder, black pepper, and salt round out the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish.

With these ingredients, you can create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the perfect heat for baking.

2. Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray. This helps the casserole not stick.

3. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, diced ham, broccoli florets, and half of the Swiss cheese. Toss until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This will be the sauce that brings everything together.

Baking Process

1. Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.

2. Transfer this mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

3. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Swiss cheese. Sprinkle this topping generously over the casserole.

4. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges to know it’s ready.

Final Touches

1. Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds a nice pop of color.

3. For serving, you can scoop portions onto plates or serve directly from the casserole dish. A sprinkle of extra parsley can make it look even better!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfect the Casserole

Using rotisserie chicken simplifies this dish. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix it right in. You can also use leftover chicken if you have some.

For seasoning, feel free to get creative. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. A pinch of paprika can add a nice kick. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste.

Cooking Tools Needed

You will need a few key tools for this recipe. A large mixing bowl is a must for combining ingredients. A whisk helps mix the cream and seasonings well.

The right casserole dish is important too. I recommend a 9x13 inch dish. This size cooks the casserole evenly. Make sure it is deep enough for all the layers.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This casserole goes well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a filling meal.

For drinks, consider a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Lemonade or iced tea are great non-alcoholic options. Enjoy your meal with friends and family!

Variations

Low-Carb Version

To make a low-carb Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole, you can swap some ingredients. Use cauliflower rice instead of breadcrumbs. This change keeps the dish tasty while cutting down on carbs. For the cream, try using cream cheese mixed with chicken broth. Adjust the cooking time if needed. Check for doneness by looking for a bubbly, golden top.

Gluten-Free Option

If you need a gluten-free version, it's simple! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also replace the Dijon mustard with a gluten-free brand or omit it. This keeps the flavor close to the original. Make sure to check all labels on ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Different Cheese Ideas

Cheese can change the flavor of your casserole. While Swiss cheese is classic, you can try mozzarella for a milder taste. Cheddar adds a sharp kick, while gouda offers a creamy touch. Mix different cheeses for extra flavor. Pairing cheeses can make your casserole unique and exciting!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to three days. Always mark the date on the container so you remember when you stored it. For best taste, eat it within that time.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions for easy serving. Place each portion in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes.

Shelf Life

In the refrigerator, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can stay good for three months. Look for signs of spoilage like off smells or mold. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw it out. Always trust your senses when checking food safety.

FAQs

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish that combines chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. It is a twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, which usually involves breaded chicken rolled with ham and cheese. In this casserole, you layer the ingredients, making it easy to prepare and serve. The creamy filling and crispy topping create a rich, savory flavor that everyone loves.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover it and store it in the fridge. This helps save time on busy days. When ready to bake, simply take it out and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake it as directed. This way, you still get that fresh-baked taste!

Can I substitute cooked chicken for raw chicken?

You can use cooked chicken, which makes the recipe easier. If you want to use raw chicken, you need to adjust the cooking time. Cook the raw chicken fully before adding it to the casserole. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat. Using cooked chicken saves time and makes the dish even simpler!

In this post, we explored a tasty Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. We covered the important ingredients like chicken, ham, cheese, and broccoli. The step-by-step instructions made baking easy. You also learned tips for perfecting your dish and variations for different diets. Don’t forget about storage options to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, and remember, cooking can be fun and creative! Your kitchen is about to be filled with delicious aromas that everyone will love.