Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a must-try! Juicy chicken stuffed with ham and gooey Swiss cheese, then baked to crispy perfection. It’s a simple dish that looks fancy but is super easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve with a fresh salad or creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this casserole, giving it a tender texture.
- Ham. Sliced, deli-style ham adds that distinct savory flavor we love in Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- Cheese. Use Swiss or Gruyère cheese for that perfectly melted, gooey goodness.
- Breadcrumbs. For a crispy topping, seasoned breadcrumbs will give a delightful crunch.
- Chicken broth. This keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with rich flavor.
- Seasonings. A mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder will enhance the taste of this comforting dish.
- Butter. Melted butter is used to toast the breadcrumbs, adding a rich flavor to the topping.
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and beautifully in the time specified. A hot oven allows for the perfect combination of crispy edges and creamy filling.
Take your cooked chicken, and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience. This step is important as it allows the chicken to mix easily with the other ingredients and absorb all the delightful flavors.
In a greased baking dish, start layering your ingredients. First, spread the chicken evenly over the bottom. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of ham atop the chicken, followed by a dreamy layer of cheese. This sequence not only ensures that each bite is packed with flavor but also helps in creating a beautiful presentation.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, and some seasonings. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain. Pour this luscious sauce over the layered chicken, ham, and cheese. This step adds moisture and richness to the casserole, ensuring it stays creamy and indulgent throughout the baking process.
For that perfect crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of melted butter. This crispy topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling beneath it, adding texture and enhancing the overall experience of the dish.
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes will create a golden, bubbly topping that’s simply irresistible.
Once baked to perfection, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve while retaining its delicious layers.
Notes
Make Ahead
You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Assemble everything, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with ingredients! If you prefer turkey or another protein, swap out the chicken and ham. Various cheeses like Swiss or cheddar can add unique flavors too.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs nicely with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Adding a side of garlic bread can elevate the meal to a delightful feast. Enjoy every layer of flavor!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe