Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe – recipestasteful (2024)

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than chicken cordon bleu casserole. This classic dish takes all the delicious flavors of the traditional French dish and transforms them into a hearty and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

To make chicken cordon bleu casserole, you’ll start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pounded thin and then layered with ham and Swiss cheese. The whole thing is then topped with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden-brown crust. A creamy sauce made with milk, sour cream, and butter brings everything together, creating a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

Whether you’re a fan of classic French cuisine or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, chicken cordon bleu casserole is a dish that’s sure to please. With its combination of tender chicken, salty ham, and creamy cheese, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. So why not give it a try tonight and see for yourself?

History of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a classic dish that has been around for decades. The dish originated in Switzerland in the early 1900s, and it was originally made with veal instead of chicken. The name “Cordon Bleu” means “blue ribbon” in French and was used to describe a prestigious award given to chefs who had achieved a high level of culinary skill.

The dish made its way to the United States in the 1960s, and it quickly became a popular dinner option for families. The casserole version of the dish is a more recent adaptation that is designed to be an easy and convenient way to prepare the dish.

To make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you start by layering cooked chicken and ham in a baking dish. You then top the meat with a creamy cheese sauce and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. The casserole is then baked in the oven until it is golden brown and bubbly.

Today, there are many different variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, but the basic recipe remains the same. Some recipes call for different types of cheese or additional ingredients like broccoli or mushrooms, but the core components of chicken, ham, and cheese remain the same.

Overall, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that has been enjoyed by families for generations.

Essential Ingredients

When it comes to making a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, there are a few essential ingredients that you simply cannot do without. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these ingredients and explore why they are so important in making this classic dish.

Chicken

As the name suggests, chicken is the star of this casserole dish. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken is a great source of protein, which makes it an excellent choice for a hearty and filling casserole. When cooking the chicken, be sure to season it with salt and pepper to give it a little extra flavor.

Ham

In addition to chicken, ham is another essential ingredient in Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. You’ll want to use thinly sliced ham, which will help to give the casserole a nice, smoky flavor. Ham is also a good source of protein, and it pairs perfectly with chicken to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cheese

Cheese is another important ingredient in this casserole dish. You’ll want to use a combination of Swiss and Parmesan cheese to give the casserole a rich and creamy flavor. Swiss cheese has a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken and ham, while Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, tangy taste to the dish. Be sure to grate the cheese finely to help it melt evenly throughout the casserole.

Breadcrumbs

Finally, breadcrumbs are an essential ingredient in Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. They help to give the casserole a nice, crispy texture on top, and they also add a little extra flavor. You can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your personal preference. To make the breadcrumbs extra crispy, you can mix them with a little bit of melted butter before sprinkling them over the top of the casserole.

Cooking Equipment Needed

To make a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you will need a few essential pieces of cooking equipment. Here is a list of what you will need:

1. Casserole Dish

The first thing you will need is a casserole dish. A 9×13 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe. You can use a glass or ceramic dish, but make sure it is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures.

2. Mixing Bowls

You will need at least two mixing bowls to make the casserole. One bowl will be used to mix the chicken, ham, and cheese, while the other will be used to make the creamy sauce. Make sure the bowls are big enough to hold all the ingredients.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons

Accurate measurements are critical when making a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. You will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out the ingredients for the sauce and the casserole. Make sure you have both dry and liquid measuring cups.

4. Whisk

A whisk is necessary to make the creamy sauce for the casserole. It will help you blend the ingredients together and create a smooth, velvety texture.

5. Cutting Board and Knife

You will need a cutting board and a sharp knife to chop the cooked chicken and ham into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the knife is sharp enough to cut through the meat easily.

With these essential pieces of cooking equipment, you will be well on your way to making a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Preparation Steps

Preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a straightforward process that involves pre-cooking the chicken, assembling the layers, and baking the casserole. Here are the steps to follow:

Pre-Cooking Chicken

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, cook your chicken cutlets in a skillet over medium heat until they are lightly browned on both sides. Season the chicken with 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt and 3/4 tsp. ground black pepper, divided. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to cool.

Assembling Layers

Next, layer the chicken in the bottom of the greased baking dish, followed by a layer of chopped ham over the chicken. Then, add a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.

Baking the Casserole

For the sauce, melt 4 tbsp. butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan and add garlic as it melts. Keep stirring with a rubber spatula to avoid burning. Add 4 tbsp. all-purpose flour to the saucepan and whisk until the mixture turns golden brown. Then, add 2 cups of whole milk, and whisk until the mixture thickens. Season the sauce with kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper.

Pour the sauce over the layers in the baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

By following these simple preparation steps, you can create a delicious and hearty Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that is perfect for any occasion.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking time and temperature are crucial factors that determine the success of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. The ideal temperature for cooking this dish is 375°F (190°C).

The cooking time for this casserole varies depending on the recipe you choose. However, most recipes require around 45-50 minutes of baking time. It’s essential to follow the recipe and check the casserole’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Here’s a table that summarizes the cooking time and temperature for some popular Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipes:

Note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on your oven’s accuracy and the casserole’s size and thickness. It’s always best to check the casserole’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked. The recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).

In summary, cooking time and temperature are essential factors to consider when making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Follow the recipe’s instructions and use a meat thermometer to ensure the casserole is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served on its own or paired with other dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions to help you make the most of this tasty casserole:

1. Pair with a Side Salad

To balance out the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, consider serving it with a simple, crisp green salad. A salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.

2. Add Some Vegetables

To make your meal more well-rounded, consider adding some vegetables to your plate. Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans are all great options that can complement the flavors of the casserole.

3. Serve with Bread or Rolls

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider serving the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with some freshly baked bread or rolls. A warm, crusty baguette or a soft, buttery dinner roll can be the perfect accompaniment to this hearty dish.

4. Top with Fresh Herbs

To add a pop of color and flavor to your casserole, consider topping it with some fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, thyme, or basil can all add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.

5. Pair with a Light Dessert

To finish off your meal on a sweet note, consider serving a light, fruit-forward dessert like a berry compote or sorbet. This can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole and leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Variations

If you are looking to switch up your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe, there are a few variations you can try. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you or someone in your household has a gluten intolerance or allergy, you can still enjoy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole by making a few substitutions. Instead of using regular breadcrumbs, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Vegetarian Options

While the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is made with chicken and ham, you can still make a delicious vegetarian version. Instead of chicken, you can use tofu or seitan. For the ham, you can use vegetarian ham or leave it out altogether. You can also add in some vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make it even more flavorful.