Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, comforting dish that's sure to impress your family or guests? Look no further than the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This delicious recipe combines tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping, all brought together by a luscious Dijon cream sauce. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, this casserole is as easy to make as it is delicious. Read on to discover how you can create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, Chicken Cordon Bleu. Traditionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu consists of chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and fried or baked. This casserole version simplifies the process by layering shredded or diced chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a baking dish, then topping it with a creamy Dijon sauce and crunchy breadcrumbs. The result is a flavorful, comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Dijon Cream Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups milk (skim or full cream)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chicken or vegetable stock/Bouillon powder
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Casserole

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
• 4 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups ham, diced
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Casserole Topping

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Equipment

• A 2-quart casserole dish

Substitutions and Variations

While the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few substitutions and variations you might consider:

• Vegetables: Substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or peas.
• Cheese: Try using Gruyère or cheddar cheese in place of Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey or a vegetarian protein like tofu for a meatless version.
• Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have a gluten intolerance.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole involves several steps, but each is straightforward and easy to follow. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Make The Dijon Cream Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the grated or minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Whisk in the Flour: Reduce the heat to low, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, continuously whisking until the mixture is smooth.
5. Incorporate the Flavorings: Add the Dijon mustard, stock powder, and Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking consistently until the sauce thickens. If necessary, add extra milk in small amounts (1-2 tablespoons at a time) to achieve your preferred consistency.
6. Season and Finish: Finally, season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the parsley if desired.

Prepare the Casserole

1. Blanch the Broccoli: While making the sauce, bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking. Place the shredded or diced chicken at the bottom of the dish, then layer the broccoli and diced ham on top.
4. Add the Sauce and Cheese: Evenly pour the prepared Dijon cream sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and ham. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Add the Topping and Bake

1. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined.
2. Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
3. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Skipping the Blanching Step: Blanching the broccoli ensures it remains crisp-tender and doesn’t become mushy in the casserole.
• Overcooking the Sauce: Be sure to whisk the sauce continuously to avoid lumps and ensure it thickens properly.
• Not Greasing the Dish: Grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Here are some tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Portion Size: Cut the casserole into even portions to ensure everyone gets a fair share of the delicious ingredients.
• Accompaniments: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
• Plating: Serve each portion on a clean white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the casserole.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe Tips

To make your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole even better, consider these additional tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh broccoli florets will enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 4 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes. If frozen, heat in the oven for 25-30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole? A: Yes, feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère, cheddar, or any other cheese you prefer.

Q: Is it necessary to blanch the broccoli? A: Blanching the broccoli helps retain its color and texture, but if you prefer softer broccoli, you can skip this step.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use cooked chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken? A: Absolutely! Cooked, shredded, or diced chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe.

Conclusion

The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in an easy-to-make casserole format. With its creamy Dijon sauce, tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, gourmet meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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