Oh, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! Just saying it out loud gets me excited! This dish holds a special place in my heart, not only because it’s ridiculously delicious but also because it’s a cozy reminder of family gatherings where everyone gathered around the table to enjoy a hearty meal. You know those nights where everyone is laughing, sharing stories, and just enjoying each other’s company? This casserole is one of those dishes that can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable one.
As someone who loves cooking but doesn’t always have the time for elaborate meals, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a lifesaver! It combines the tender chicken, smoky ham, and creamy cheese that we love from the classic recipe but with a cozy twist that makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’s going to become a regular on your dinner menu!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Let’s break down the star ingredients that come together to create this fabulous casserole!
Chicken: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and are easy to shred. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry—just shred it and you’re good to go!
Ham: Sweet, salty ham adds a lovely flavor contrast. I prefer using good-quality deli ham for optimal taste, but you can use leftover holiday ham too—no waste here!
Swiss Cheese: This is the cheese of choice! Its nutty flavor melts beautifully and complements the dish perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, go for the good stuff, but any Swiss cheese will do just fine!
Breadcrumbs: Adding crunchy breadcrumb topping not only gives texture but keeps the casserole from feeling too ‘soggy’—I mean, nobody wants a mushy casserole, right?
Mustard: A dash of mustard adds a subtle kick that elevates the dish—trust me on this! I like to use Dijon for a bit of tanginess.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Good for You?
Now, while this casserole is super delicious, let’s chat about the health aspect.
Chicken: Packed full of protein, chicken is a great addition for muscle maintenance and fullness.
Ham: Though ham does provide some protein, it can be high in sodium, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your portion size if you’re watching your salt intake.
Sauce Ingredients: Depending on how creamy you make the sauce, it can vary in calories. Using low-fat versions of ingredients can cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
Overall, while this casserole can be a little rich, sharing it with family and friends makes it so worth it!
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 6-8 people. Here’s what you need to whip it up:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup diced ham
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 can (10.5 oz) creamy chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter, melted (for the breadcrumb topping)
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Alright, let’s get into the fun part—making the casserole!
1. **Preheat Your Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Mix Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, 1 cup of Swiss cheese, chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until well combined.
3. **Transfer to Baker:** Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. **Add Breadcrumbs:** In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter before topping off the casserole with the mixture. Make sure to sprinkle it evenly.
5. **Cheese it Up:** Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top. You can never have too much cheese, right?
6. **Bake:** Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. **Serve:** Let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in!
Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole Delight!
As much as I love this casserole on its own, there are plenty of tasty companions to consider! Pair it with a crisp green salad to cut through the creaminess, or maybe some roasted veggies for a healthy kick. If you’re looking for a little indulgence, garlic bread is always a winner—it’s the perfect tool for scooping up the cheesy goodness!
So, there you go! I can’t wait for you to give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole a try. I’d love to hear how it turns out and if you have any fun variations of your own. Happy cooking, my friends!