Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

– 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped

– 8 oz. ham, diced

– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

– 1 cup Panko bread crumbs

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, fresh or dried

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 1/4 cups milk

– 1 can (10.75 oz.) cream of chicken soup

– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

– Cooking spray

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham layers, making sure to cover completely.

5. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese over the soup mixture, creating a cheesy layer.

6. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Panko bread crumbs, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole top.

7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

8. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set.

Variations & Tips:

– For a lighter version, try using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup.

– To impart some green, mix in some cooked broccoli or peas with the chicken and ham.

– If you prefer a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

– Leftover rotisserie chicken makes an excellent time-saver and adds depth of flavor.

– If Swiss cheese isn’t to your liking, you can substitute Gruyère for a nuttier profile or a mild cheddar for a more familiar take on the dish.

– As always, ensure you’re tasting and seasoning as you go to cater to your personal preference.

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serving Suggestions: Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole hot and fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color and flavor. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
2. Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to prevent the casserole from drying out during reheating.
3. Freezing: You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification. Frozen Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
4. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat the thawed casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covering it with foil to prevent excessive browning. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warmed to your liking.
5. Quality Check: Before serving reheated leftovers, always ensure they are piping hot throughout to eliminate any potential foodborne bacteria. Additionally, check the texture and flavor to ensure they remain satisfactory after reheating.

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version of this casserole, substitute the chicken and ham with diced mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add extra cheese for a gooey, indulgent twist.
2. Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the cream of chicken soup, are certified gluten-free.
3. Low-Carb Version: If you’re following a low-carb diet, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can also omit the cream of chicken soup and use a mixture of heavy cream and chicken broth thickened with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or almond flour.
4. Mexican Twist: Give this classic casserole a Tex-Mex flair by adding diced green chilies, black beans, and corn to the chicken and ham mixture. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of salsa before baking for a zesty kick.
5. Italian-Inspired: Transform this dish into an Italian masterpiece by swapping the ham for crispy pancetta or prosciutto. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped artichoke hearts, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Keto-Friendly: For a keto-friendly version, use cauliflower rice instead of breadcrumbs and swap the cream of chicken soup for a homemade keto-friendly sauce made with heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Add in your favorite keto-friendly vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition.

FAQs:

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, pre-cooked chicken, such as leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, works perfectly in this recipe. Simply chop it up and use it as directed.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
3. Can I freeze the casserole before baking? Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
4. What can I substitute for Swiss cheese? Gruyère cheese makes an excellent substitute for Swiss cheese in this recipe, offering a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a mild cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese for a different twist.
5. Can I omit the ham or use a different type of meat? Yes, you can omit the ham if desired or substitute it with cooked bacon, turkey bacon, or cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
6. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the milk and cheese? Yes, you can use unsweetened almond milk or another dairy-free milk alternative in place of cow’s milk. For the cheese, look for dairy-free cheese alternatives made from ingredients like coconut oil or almond milk.

With its irresistible combination of flavors and easy preparation, our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this comforting dish is always a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor and love. Bon appétit!