Pic Credit: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu dish. Made from juicy chicken, salty ham, and soft cheese with fixed toppings that are baked in the oven and proved to be a tasty dish for any family dinner parties.
Their great taste and precooking make this food satisfying, while the dinner table unites us all. This recipe article provides a step-by-step guide to preparing the ingredients, the method, and the tricks you need to know to make a casserole that is perfect every time.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cooked chicken, cubed or shredded (about 8 cups)
- 1/2 pound deli ham, diced
- 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 12 ounces lower sodium chicken-flavored stuffing mix, prepared according to package directions
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning (like Montreal Chicken)
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Cooking Chicken: Make sure that the chicken is well cooked in order to prevent the growth of bacteria in the casserole. It should measured an internal temperature of at least 165°F or 74°C.
- Using Ham: Choose deli ham with less sodium so that you can manage the salt in your meal. It is also important for extra flavor to use the leftover ham.
- Cheese Selection: Choose cheeses that melt well, such as Swiss or cheddar, to achieve a creamy texture.
- Stuffing Preparation: Follow the instructions on the stuffing package carefully. Using lower sodium stuffing can help balance flavors.
- Baking Time: Look at the casserole when baking; in case it goes brown on the top, then one has to use aluminum foil to cover it.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Chicken: Rotisserie chicken can be used here for ease; however, before adding to the casserole, shred the chicken.
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Ham: Really any type of cooked ham will do; try not to be limited by what is listed here.
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Cream of Chicken Soup: It helps to enrich the sauce and bring the additional, almost meaty taste, though you can use homemade cream sauce instead.
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Stuffing Mix: A variety of stuffing mixes can be made for use; one can use herb or cornbread for a change.
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Cheese Variations: Mixing different types of cheese can enhance flavor; try adding mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Preheat the Oven: Turn your stove to 350°F (175°C). Preheat the oven at 350°F Lightly grease a deep 9 x described baking pan and keep it aside.
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Prepare the Stuffing: Cook the stuffing using the packet instructions and should be set aside when ready.
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Season the Chicken: In one big bowl, mix the chicken that has been cubed or shredded with the chicken and season it. Toss well to coat evenly.
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Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken in an even layer across the bottom of the baking dish prepared for use. Then Layer the diced ham over the chicken. Sprinkle Swiss cheese and 1½ cups of cheddar cheese on top of the ham.
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Mix Soup and Milk: In the second bowl combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, and dried parsley gently without being lumpy.
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Combine Layers: Carefully, take the baking dish with the cheese layer, and pour the soup mixture evenly over it.
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Add Stuffing Layer: Pour the realized stuffing evenly over the top of the casserole. That is just in case there is still some cheddar cheese to sprinkle over the top of the biscuits.
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Bake: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and continue to bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is slightly brown.
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Rest Before Serving: I also reduced the baking time to 50 minutes and it turned out well, just that after baking it allow it to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Because of this it can tilt slightly in order to create a flat surface to serve from.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be put together in advance and kept in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
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Freezing Option: This casserole is best when assembled and frozen before baking, and it freezes well. These should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before attempting to prepare them in any manner.
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Vegetable Additions: To enhance the nutrient value, you can add broccoli or spinach before baking to the mixture.
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Spicy Twist: Include jalapeno for a hot type of this casserole or you can use pepper jack cheese.
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Serving Suggestions: This casserole can be served with fresh green salad or steamed vegetables in order to complete the meal.
EQUIPMENT
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Large skillet
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Oven
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Baking dish (9x13 inches)
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Nonstick spray
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
- Serve hot straight from the oven for maximum flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
- Offer additional sides like garlic bread or a light salad to complement the richness of the casserole.
- Consider serving with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard on the side.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you're looking for another flavorful meal, check out this easy Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe.
