Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: Easy, Delicious in 30 Minutes

Table of Contents

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• 2. Ingredients for Your 30-Minute Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• 3. Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
  • 3.1. Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
  • 3.2. Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
  • 3.3. Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
• 4. Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• 5. Variations: Customize Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• 6. Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• 7. Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready for a taste sensation that brings classic flavors to your weeknight table without the fuss? Today, we’re diving headfirst into the creamy, savory world of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This dish is an absolute game-changer, promising all the deliciousness of the original in a simple, comforting casserole format.

Forget spending hours slaving over a hot stove; this easy dinner recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings. It’s truly the ultimate See others recipes here for when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying but are short on time. Let’s get cooking!

1. Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

There are so many reasons to adore this incredible chicken casserole recipe. First and foremost, it takes the elegant flavors of classic chicken cordon bleu – tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese – and transforms them into an approachable, family-friendly dish.

It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd. Plus, the minimal prep and quick bake time mean less stress and more enjoyment. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can achieve in such a short amount of time with this quick casserole recipe.

2. Ingredients for Your 30-Minute Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful See others recipes here . Most of these items are probably already staples in your pantry and fridge! Here’s what you’ll need for your amazing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Let’s get down to business! Follow these simple steps to bring your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to life. You’ll be surprised how quickly this comes together, making it a true See others recipes here for any night of the week.

3.1. Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Set aside.

3.2. Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and diced cooked ham.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham. Add 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish.

3.3. Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

1. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Swiss cheese over the top of the casserole.
2. Evenly scatter the buttered panko breadcrumbs over the cheese.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

4. Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Making this casserole is straightforward, but a few simple tips can elevate it from great to absolutely phenomenal. These little touches ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a hit every time.

• Use a good quality ham: Opt for a deli ham that you enjoy eating on its own. It makes a big difference in flavor.
• Rotisserie chicken is your friend: For ultimate convenience, grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shredding it quickly shaves off precious prep time.
• Don’t skip the panko: Panko breadcrumbs provide a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, adding a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior.
• Season generously: Taste your sauce mixture before adding the chicken and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch more pepper or a dash of hot sauce can really wake it up!

5. Variations: Customize Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

The beauty of a casserole is its versatility! While the classic ham and chicken casserole combination is divine, feel free to get creative with your ingredients. This See others recipes here is incredibly adaptable.

• Add pasta: Stir in 2 cups of cooked elbow macaroni or penne for a heartier, more substantial meal.
• Vegetable boost: Fold in a cup of frozen peas, chopped broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Different cheeses: Experiment with Gruyere, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar alongside or instead of Swiss for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle kick.

6. Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This rich and flavorful cordon bleu casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The goal is to balance the creamy goodness with something fresh and light. Here are some of our favorite pairings:

• Crisp Green Salad: A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus add a nice fresh crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or carrots make a wholesome and delicious accompaniment.
• Garlic Bread: Because, well, who can resist dipping warm, buttery garlic bread into creamy casserole sauce?

7. Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

Leftovers of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole are just as delicious the next day, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can either warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or for a crispier top, reheat the entire casserole (covered with foil to prevent drying) in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and hot. Enjoy every last bite of this delightful See others recipes here !

Foire Aux Questions

Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, excluding the breadcrumb topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, sprinkle with the buttered breadcrumbs and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.

What kind of chicken is best to use for this recipe?

For convenience and best results, pre-cooked chicken is recommended. This could be shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover baked or grilled chicken, or even canned chicken (drained well). Using cooked chicken helps keep this recipe a true 30-minute meal.

Can I freeze leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Once cooled, transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil and then plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.