Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Hearty and Simple Dish

Craving a comforting meal? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your answer! It’s hearty, simple, and packed with flavors you love. Imagine tender chicken and ham, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, all in one dish. Whether you want to impress guests or whip up a quick dinner, this casserole checks all the boxes. Dive into this easy recipe, and let me show you how to make it shine!

Ingredients

Main ingredients needed for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

To make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you will need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup cooked ham, diced into small pieces

– 1 cup Swiss cheese, freshly shredded

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 4 cups cooked egg noodles, drained

– ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dish that everyone will love.

Cheese options: Swiss and mozzarella

The cheese choices in this casserole are important. Swiss cheese gives a nutty flavor and melts well. Mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. Using both cheeses creates a great balance. If you can’t find Swiss, try Gruyère or even provolone. Each option will still bring a delicious taste.

Substitutions for cooked chicken and ham

You can easily swap out the cooked chicken and ham if needed. For chicken, you can use rotisserie chicken or turkey. If you want a meatless option, try using mushrooms or spinach. For ham, diced turkey or bacon can work well, too. These swaps keep the dish tasty while catering to your needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping your casserole dish

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking. Next, take a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. This helps the casserole come out easily after baking.

Mixing the main casserole ingredients

In a large bowl, add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Then, toss in 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Next, add 1 cup of freshly shredded Swiss cheese and 1 cup of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, mix in 4 cups of cooked egg noodles. Use a spatula to blend everything well. You want all the ingredients to be evenly mixed.

Preparing the creamy sauce mixture

In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Then, add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until smooth. This sauce gives your casserole a rich flavor.

Assembling the casserole

Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and noodle mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spatula. Make sure every piece is coated with that creamy goodness. Now, transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

Baking times and temperature settings

Now it’s time to add the finishing touch. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This makes a crunchy topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the casserole. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Watch for bubbly edges and a golden brown top. After baking, let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps it set before you serve.

Tips & Tricks

How to ensure a creamy texture

To keep your casserole creamy, use heavy cream. It adds richness. You can also mix in some low-sodium chicken broth. This helps balance the flavors. When you combine these liquids, whisk them well. This step prevents lumps. Make sure to coat every noodle and piece of meat. A well-mixed dish is both creamy and delicious.

Best practices for freezing leftovers

Freezing leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool first. Then, cut it into portions. Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label each bag with the date. This way, you know how long it’s been there. Casserole lasts for about three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the oven for best results.

Enhancing flavor with herbs and spices

Herbs and spices bring your casserole to life. I suggest using dried thyme for a warm taste. You can also add garlic and onion powder for depth. For a kick, consider a pinch of paprika or cayenne. Fresh herbs, like parsley, make a great garnish. Just chop them finely and sprinkle on top before serving. This adds color and freshness.

Variations

Vegetarian Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

You can make a tasty vegetarian version of this casserole. Replace the chicken and ham with cooked mushrooms and spinach. Use a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For added flavor, toss in some artichoke hearts. The cheese and creamy sauce will still give you that rich taste. This dish stays filling and satisfying without meat.

Gluten-free adaptations

For a gluten-free casserole, swap the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Check the labels for the right kind. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs on top for that nice crunch. Ensure your chicken broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry.

Alternative cheese combinations

While Swiss and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to switch it up. Try using gouda or cheddar for a sharper taste. You can even blend in some cream cheese for extra creaminess. Mixing in different cheeses can give your casserole a new twist. Explore flavors that you love!

Storage Info

Proper storage techniques for leftovers

To keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole fresh, allow it to cool first. Use an airtight container to store it. Make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out. You can also place it in the original baking dish, but cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

Reheating instructions

When it’s time to eat your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until hot. You can also microwave it, but stir it halfway through to heat evenly.

How long does it last in the fridge/freezer?

In the fridge, this casserole stays good for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label the container, so you know when it was made!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Just follow the steps until you assemble it. Cover the dish and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Baking might take a little longer, so keep an eye on it.

What sides pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Crisp side salad

– Steamed broccoli or green beans

– Garlic bread or dinner rolls

– Roasted vegetables

These sides balance the rich flavors of the casserole and add freshness to your meal.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. It saves time and adds flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients. This is a perfect shortcut for busy days. You can enjoy a tasty meal with less effort.

This post covered how to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. We discussed main ingredients like chicken, ham, and cheese options. You learned step-by-step instructions for prepping, mixing, and baking your dish. I shared tips for creamy texture and flavor boosts. Variations like vegetarian and gluten-free options make this dish flexible. Finally, I provided storage tips and answered common questions.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a tasty casserole that fits any situation. Happy cookin