Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Layers: This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• Low Carb Delight: For those watching their carb intake, this casserole is a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring that everyone at the table will be satisfied and asking for seconds!

Introduction

Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Say hello to the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into a cozy casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Ingredients

• 🍗 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 lb)
• 🍖 6 oz ham, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 🧈 4 oz butter, melted
• 🧀 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 🥫 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 🍷 1 tbsp white wine (optional)
• 🍋 1 oz lemon juice
• 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
• 🧀 5 oz Swiss cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Layer the Chicken: In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, place the shredded cooked chicken as the first layer. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for consistent cooking.
3. Add the Ham: Next, layer the bite-sized pieces of ham over the chicken. This adds a savory punch that complements the chicken beautifully.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, white wine (if using), lemon juice, and salt. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Spread the Creamy Mixture: Carefully spread the creamy mixture over the chicken and ham layers, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Add Swiss Cheese: Top the casserole with slices of Swiss cheese, allowing it to melt and create a deliciously gooey topping.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
8. Broil for a Golden Finish: For that perfect golden crust, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your presentation by:

• Garnishing: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serving with Sides: Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Individual Portions: For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), you can store the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked? Yes, but you will need to cook the chicken first before shredding it.
2. What can I substitute for Swiss cheese? Gruyère or mozzarella cheese can be great alternatives.
3. Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
4. Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would be delicious additions.
5. How spicy is this dish? It’s not spicy at all, but you can add some cayenne pepper for a kick!
6. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
7. What wine pairs well with this casserole? A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors nicely.
8. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, shredded turkey works wonderfully in this recipe!
9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be portioned out for the week.
10. How do I know when the casserole is done? It should be bubbly and golden on top, and a thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) in the center.