Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my *absolute favorite* chicken cordon bleu casserole! It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug and brings everyone around the dinner table, ready to dig in. With tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese all baked together in one delicious dish, it’s comfort food at its finest. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the kids were raving, and my partner couldn’t stop going back for seconds! It’s so easy to throw together, and I love how it turns a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Trust me, your family will adore it just as much as mine does!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
- 1 cup ham, diced (Any cooked ham works great—feel free to use leftovers!)
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (The melty goodness is a must, but you can mix in your favorites too!)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Use plain or seasoned, depending on your taste!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (This adds creaminess and flavor—just don’t skip it!)
- 1/2 cup milk (I prefer whole milk for richness, but any milk will do)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (A little extra flavor boost—yum!)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (Trust me, it makes a difference!)
- Salt to taste (Season it up until it’s just right!)
- Pepper to taste (A pinch of black pepper adds that perfect kick!)
How to Prepare the Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe for Family Dinners
Preheat the Oven
Before you get started with all the mixing and layering, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures our casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color on top. Trust me; you don’t want to skip this part!
Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and let’s start combining those delicious ingredients! Toss in the shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese. Then, add the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well until it’s all combined—this is where the magic happens! You want each bite to be bursting with flavor, so don’t rush this step.
Prepare Casserole Dish
Next up, it’s time to get your casserole dish ready. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture from the bowl into the dish, spreading it out evenly so every corner gets that cheesy goodness. It’s like leveling a cake batter—make sure it’s nice and even!
Add Topping and Bake
Finally, let’s add the finishing touch! Sprinkle those breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will give our casserole a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Now, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until you see the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Oh, the smell that will fill your kitchen is simply irresistible!
Tips for Success
Want to take your delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Mix Up the Cheeses: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding mozzarella for extra stretch or a bit of sharp cheddar for a kick. A blend of cheeses can really elevate the flavor!
- Add Some Veggies: Sneak in some chopped broccoli or spinach for an extra nutrition boost. It adds color, texture, and makes it feel a bit more wholesome—plus, the kids won’t even notice!
- Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It’ll save you time and reduce food waste!
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste your mixture before baking! Adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of paprika for a little warmth. You want it to be flavorful before it hits the oven!
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a hot meal in no time!
Nutritional Information Section
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional info for this delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s a breakdown per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This casserole is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also packs a protein punch, making it a great choice for a family dinner. Enjoy knowing that you’re serving up something delicious while still being mindful of nutrition!
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making this delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to lighten your dinner prep on busy nights. You can assemble the entire casserole and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Just pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, take it out, remove the cover, and bake it straight from the refrigerator. You might want to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through all the way. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver for those hectic evenings!
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If Swiss cheese isn’t your thing or you just want to switch it up, there are plenty of delicious alternatives! You can use mozzarella for that lovely stretch and mild flavor, or cheddar if you’re craving something a bit sharper. Gruyère is another fantastic option that stays true to the classic flavors. Honestly, feel free to mix and match! Each cheese brings its own character to the casserole, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find your favorite combo!
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, so you’ve enjoyed the delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole, and now you have some leftovers. No worries; storing them is super easy! First, let the casserole cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftover portions to an airtight container. If you have a lot left, you can cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep out any unwanted air!
When stored properly, your casserole will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it! Just cut it into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should stay good for up to 3 months—perfect for a quick meal later on!
Now, when it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of methods you can use. For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole or portion in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop it in for a couple of minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overdo it, as it can dry out a bit!
Enjoy those leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick: This casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast!
- Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep, even beginner cooks can whip this dish up with confidence.
- Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love!
- Comforting: This hearty dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for bringing families together around the dinner table.
- Gluten-Free: With just the right ingredients, this casserole can be made gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the rich flavors of the casserole:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy casserole. Try mixing in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta for an extra flavor boost!
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots are a great way to add some vibrant color and nutrients to your plate. Drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice over them for a zesty finish!
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Serve some warm, buttery slices on the side to soak up every last bit of that creamy casserole. It’s the perfect comfort food combo!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with a creamy dressing can add a nice crunch and contrast to the richness of the casserole. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare ahead of time!
- Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes would be a fantastic side dish. They’ll add even more comfort to your meal and are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
These sides will not only enhance the overall meal experience but will also impress your family and friends at dinner time. Enjoy the deliciousness together!
Print
Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for Family Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole recipe perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and breadcrumbs are golden.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute other cheeses.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken cordon bleu, casserole, family dinner, easy recipe, comfort food
