Oh my goodness, you guys! I am so excited to share this recipe for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with you! Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the scent of something mouthwatering wafting through the air, and your loved ones gathered ’round the table waiting for the deliciousness to be served. This casserole is not just any dinner; it’s like a hug in a dish!
I have to confess that this recipe holds a special place in my heart. A few years ago, I hosted a dinner party for my friends, and I wanted to whip up something that would impress without spending all day in the kitchen. I stumbled upon this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, and it was a total game-changer! Everyone loved it, and I even had a few requests for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, meaning you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your evening with good company. Who doesn’t love that?
What’s in Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Let’s break down the star players in this delectable dish:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the base of our casserole. I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love rotisserie chicken?).
Ham: Diced ham adds that salty, savory element that complements the chicken beautifully. Feel free to use leftover holiday ham or deli ham; either works great!
Swiss Cheese: This melty cheese brings a rich, creamy texture to the casserole. I recommend using freshly shredded Swiss for the best melting experience.
Sour Cream: Oh, the creaminess! Sour cream not only adds richness but also a nice tang that balances the flavors perfectly.
Cream of Chicken Soup: I can’t deny it; this is a pantry staple in many homes. It creates a luscious sauce that binds everything together. You can use low-fat for a healthier twist!
Breadcrumbs: For that delightful crunch on top, I like to use panko for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs would work too.
Milk: Just a bit of milk helps to thin out the mixture, making it easier to blend all those fabulous flavors.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a subtle kick! You can adjust it based on your preference; just don’t skip it!
Black Pepper and Garlic Powder: These seasonings enhance the flavors and elevate this casserole from good to great.
Fresh Parsley: A splash of color and freshness to garnish your dish!
Butter: Just a little melted butter mixed with breadcrumbs to create that golden topping. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Good for You?
Now, I know what you’re thinking—this casserole sounds super indulgent! While it’s true that it’s rich, there are some redeeming qualities here.
Cooked Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken helps keep you full and satisfied, and paired with the ham, it amps up that protein power!
Sour Cream: While it does add calories, you can select a lower-fat version to help balance things out without sacrificing flavor.
Swiss Cheese: It does provide some calcium, which is great for bone health, but moderation is key!
Overall, it’s a special-occasion dish or a perfect weeknight comfort food after a long day at work. So, enjoy it occasionally and pair it with a vibrant salad for a dose of greens!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
This delightful casserole serves about 6 hungry people!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Let’s get cooking with these super simple steps!
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. **In a large mixing bowl,** combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, Swiss cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. **Transfer the chicken mixture** into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. **In a separate bowl,** mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
5. **Bake** in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. **Once baked, remove** from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
And voilà, you have a stunningly creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ready to dig into!
Casserole Creativity Corner
Feeling adventurous? Here are some tips to customize this dish:
– **Vegetable Boost:** Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the mixture for a veggie punch!
– **Cheese Lovers’ Choice:** Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
– **Spice It Up:** A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you’re in the mood for heat.
– **Texture Play:** Try crushing some potato chips to sprinkle on top for a different kind of crunch!
I can’t wait for you all to try this amazing casserole! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Trust me, when you serve this, everyone will be clamoring for the recipe! When you do make it, don’t forget to share your experience—I love hearing from you guys! Happy cooking!
