Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly and achieve the perfect golden top.
2. Prepare the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and chopped ham. These two ingredients will form the heart of the casserole, so make sure they’re evenly mixed. Add in the shredded Swiss cheese, and toss everything together to distribute the cheese evenly among the chicken and ham.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This mixture will bring the creamy richness that Chicken Cordon Bleu is known for. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and ham mixture and stir everything together until fully coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken and ham mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure that every bite will be packed with delicious flavors. The casserole base should be rich and creamy, with all of the ingredients nicely blended.
5. Prepare the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Stir well until the breadcrumbs are fully coated with the butter. This will create a crunchy topping that adds the perfect contrast to the creamy casserole beneath. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling. The cheese should be melted, and the entire dish should be hot and inviting.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to scoop out. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and a burst of freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken and ham with your favorite plant-based protein and vegan cheese for a vegetarian take on this casserole.
- Extra Crunch: Add some crushed cornflakes to the breadcrumb topping for an even crunchier texture.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce to spice things up.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed when ready to serve.
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with its creamy filling and crunchy topping is a perfect way to enjoy the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu in a more convenient, less time-consuming format. The layers of shredded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese are enveloped in a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or when you’re looking to impress guests with minimal effort. The best part is how it combines all the flavors of the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu without the need for any complicated cooking techniques.
This casserole can be paired with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to round out the meal, and it’s a great dish for leftovers the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together. If you’re craving comfort food that’s simple to prepare but full of flavor, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the way to go!
