Description of this recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole reimagines the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu into an easy-to-assemble, family-friendly casserole. It captures all the delicious flavors of the original—savory chicken, salty ham, and nutty Swiss cheese—layered in a creamy sauce and topped with golden, buttery breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, offering a comforting and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely love this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole because it takes all the complexity out of the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe without sacrificing any of the flavor. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal hands-on time. The creamy sauce keeps the chicken moist and tender, while the breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover ham!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This ensures that the casserole doesn’t stick to the bottom, making it easier to serve and clean up afterward. Preheating is crucial for even cooking, ensuring the chicken cooks thoroughly and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
Step 2: Cut each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Seasoning at this stage ensures the chicken itself is flavorful, not just the surrounding ingredients. You can also use other spices like garlic powder or paprika for added flavor depth.
Step 3: Place the chicken cutlets in the prepared casserole dish, spreading them out evenly across the bottom. Arrange the chicken in a single layer so that it cooks evenly. Overlapping chicken can result in uneven cooking times.
Step 4: Top each chicken cutlet with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. This layering is what gives the casserole the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor. The saltiness of the ham complements the creamy, nutty flavor of the Swiss cheese, creating a delightful combination.
Step 5: In a bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken soup with 1/4 cup of water and stir well. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken, ham, and cheese. The cream of chicken soup acts as a binder and adds moisture to the casserole, preventing the chicken from drying out during baking. Adding a little water helps to thin the soup, allowing it to spread more evenly.
Step 6: In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. The melted butter helps the breadcrumbs to brown and adds a rich, crispy texture to the topping.
Step 7: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Covering the dish with foil initially helps to steam the chicken and keep it moist. Removing the foil allows the breadcrumbs to brown nicely in the final 15 minutes.
Step 8: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld together.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed green beans or asparagus for a healthy and colorful side.
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a comforting, starchy complement.
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Buttered noodles for a simple and satisfying side dish.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use Gruyere cheese instead of Swiss.
- Add a layer of Dijon mustard under the ham for a tangy twist.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- If the breadcrumbs start to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil.
- Add some sautéed mushrooms or onions to the cream of chicken soup mixture for added flavor.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
65 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Calories:
Approximately 450-550 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 40-50 grams per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 700-900 mg per serving
Conclusion
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a simplified yet incredibly delicious take on a classic dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs, makes it a family favorite. It’s also versatile enough to be adapted to your preferences – feel free to experiment with different cheeses, spices, or vegetables to create your own unique version. Enjoy this easy and flavorful casserole that brings all the joy of Chicken Cordon Bleu to your table with minimal effort.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can easily substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or even mozzarella. Gruyere will give you a richer, nuttier flavor, while provolone offers a milder, slightly tangy taste. Mozzarella will provide a creamy, mild flavor that’s also delicious.
Q2: Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before to let it come to room temperature a bit, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or when you’re expecting guests.
Q3: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before starting the recipe. Thawing chicken in the refrigerator overnight is the safest method. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed so it cooks evenly in the casserole.
Q4: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
A: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand or prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce. A simple white sauce (béchamel) made with butter, flour, and milk, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, works well. Alternatively, you can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
Q5: How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning while baking?
A: To prevent the breadcrumbs from burning, especially if your oven tends to run hot, cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil for the majority of the baking time. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to brown and crisp up. You can also use a lower oven temperature and extend the baking time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through without burning the topping.
