Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons Butter; 0.5 cups Yellow Onion (diced); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 2.5 cups Chicken Broth; 1.25 cups White Long Grain rice (uncooked); 10.75 oz. Cream of Chicken Soup; 0.5 cups Sour Cream; 1 cup Milk; 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard; 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded); 0.33 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 cup cooked chicken; 8 oz. ham steak (or 1 cup diced ham); 9 slices Swiss Cheese; 0.33 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs (for topping); 1 Tablespoon Melted Butter (for topping)

Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

When you're short on time but still want a delicious homemade meal, casseroles come to the rescue. They’re easy to prepare, quick to clean up, and made with wholesome ingredients that leave everyone feeling satisfied. Our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes the classic flavors of the beloved dish—savory chicken, melted Swiss cheese, and hearty chicken ham—and transforms it into a comforting one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Why Casseroles are a Go-To for Homemade Meals

Casseroles offer a unique blend of simplicity and versatility, making them a household favorite. You can tailor them to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite veggies. Plus, they’re fantastic for meal prep; whether it's setting aside leftovers for lunch or freezing a batch for later, casseroles can easily accommodate your busy schedule.

In the era of convenience, it’s refreshing to enjoy a warm, filling meal made from scratch. Pair this recipe with your favorite salad or veggie side for a well-rounded dinner. You can find more on the benefits of casseroles in this informative article from The Spruce Eats. Dive into the recipe below and discover how effortless and utterly satisfying a chicken cordon bleu casserole can be!

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Essential Ingredients for Success

To create the most delicious chicken cordon bleu casserole, you'll need a handful of essential ingredients:

Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
Onion & Garlic: For a flavor base that’s full of depth.
Rice: We recommend using white long-grain rice for the best texture.
Chicken Broth: This is your liquid base, enhancing the overall taste.
Cream of Chicken Soup & Sour Cream: These create a creamy consistency that binds everything together.
Cheeses: A mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss gives both flavor and that delightful cheesy pull.
Chicken & Chicken Ham: Diced or shredded, these are crucial for protein and that classic cordon bleu flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to personalize your chicken cordon bleu casserole with optional ingredients:

Vegetables: Add some frozen peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
Herbs: Consider fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor.
Spices: A touch of cayenne or paprika can give a slight kick.
Alternative Meats: Turkey or even beef can work if you’re looking for a twist.

These additions not only enhance the flavor but can also make it your own unique dish. Experimentation is half the fun! For additional tips on customizing your casseroles, check out this guide.

Preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Making a delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a straightforward process that comes together in just a few easy steps! You'll enjoy the creamy rice, tender chicken, savory chicken ham, and gooey cheese all baked to perfection. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it's important to have everything organized. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients: Start by gathering your butter, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, garlic powder, chicken broth, white long grain rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, and chicken ham.
Prepping the Rice: Rinse the rice in a strainer under cold water for about a minute. This helps remove excess starch, so your rice doesn't clump together.
Cheese Matters: Shred your cheese yourself rather than opting for pre-shredded varieties filled with anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances the overall taste.
Chicken Prep: If you're using uncooked chicken, season and sauté it in butter until golden.

Gather all your ingredients and prep them before you begin cooking. This will streamline your process and keep the kitchen chaos to a minimum!

Cook the Base in One Pot

Cooking the base for your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be done in a single pot, making clean-up a breeze!

Start by melting the butter in a large pot and sauté the diced onions until they're soft and aromatic.
Add in the minced garlic, garlic powder, and dried thyme, stirring for about another minute until fragrant.
Pour in your chicken broth and uncooked rice, stirring to incorporate.
Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes—do not stir during this time!

This method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while the rice cooks to fluffy perfection.

Combine Your Creamy Filling

Once the rice has absorbed the broth and rested for the recommended time, it’s time to mix in the creamy filling.

Add the creamy chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese to your pot.
Toss in the diced chicken and chicken ham, combining it all until the mixture is creamy and well-distributed.

This step is where all the flavors come together, setting the stage for a delicious casserole.

Transfer, Layer, and Cheese Up!

With your creamy mixture ready, you’re just about there!

Lightly grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish, then pour your creamy rice mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
Layer slices of Swiss cheese on top, covering the casserole with a generous layer of melted cheese goodness.

Using Swiss cheese not only ties into the cordon bleu tradition but adds that classic touch people love.

Add the Topping and Bake

Now, it’s time for that crispy topping!

Melt a tablespoon of butter and combine it with seasoned breadcrumbs.
Sprinkle this mixture generously over your casserole, ensuring you cover it all beautifully.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Once it’s been allowed to cool for a few minutes, serve it up and enjoy! You’ve just made a comfort dish that people will rave about for days.

For more cooking tips, feel free to check out reliable resources on casserole recipes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Variations on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Swap Out Chicken for Turkey

If you’re looking to switch things up in your chicken cordon bleu casserole, consider substituting chicken with turkey! This makes for a lighter dish, especially after a holiday feast. Simply use cooked turkey breast or even leftover Thanksgiving turkey. The flavor remains rich, and it can be a fantastic way to use up your holiday leftovers, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

Play with the Cheeses

Cheese lovers, rejoice! The chicken cordon bleu casserole is incredibly customizable when it comes to cheese. While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, try mixing it up with mozzarella for a gooey top, or a sharp gouda for a kick. Experimenting with cheese not only adds depth to the flavor but also lets you tailor the dish to your preferences. Don't hesitate to use what you have in your fridge!

For more ideas on swapping ingredients, check out Delish’s guide to popular substitutions. Your creativity can lead to delightful new family favorites!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Make-Ahead Options

Chicken cordon bleu casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

Freezer-Friendly Tips

Want to save some for later? You can freeze the unbaked casserole too! Make sure to wrap it well. Just remember to let it defrost overnight in the fridge before baking. When you're ready, let it sit out for 30 minutes to achieve an even bake, and you're good to go! For more tips on freezing casseroles, check out this resource.

With these simple prep suggestions, your chicken cordon bleu casserole can be a convenient and delicious meal anytime!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

What to Serve Alongside

Pair your chicken cordon bleu casserole with a refreshing side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to brighten up each bite. You can also add roasted vegetables—think carrots and zucchini—which not only add color but also provide a tasty contrast to the rich, creamy casserole.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

Complement your meal with a side of buttery garlic bread for a comforting touch. As for beverages, consider serving iced tea or sparkling water with a lemon twist to keep the meal light and refreshing. With these additions, your chicken cordon bleu casserole transforms into an inviting feast perfect for any occasion!

For more salad ideas, check out this great resource.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your chicken cordon bleu casserole takes about 10 minutes. This gives you just enough time to chop your veggies, measure out your ingredients, and set the stage for a delicious meal.

Cooking Time

Once everything is assembled, bake the casserole for about 1 hour. This ensures that all those rich flavors meld together beautifully and the cheese on top becomes delightfully golden and bubbly.

Total Time

In total, you'll spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes creating this comforting dish. Perfect for Sunday family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead, this casserole offers both simplicity and satisfaction.

Ready to dive into the full recipe? Check out the ingredient list and let your culinary adventure begin! If you need tips on preparing rice or choosing the right cheese, don’t hesitate to ask! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole contains approximately 567 calories. This makes it a satisfying choice for a main dish that doesn't skimp on flavor or enjoyment.

Protein Content

With a hearty mix of chicken and ham, you can expect about 38 grams of protein per serving. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to increase their protein intake while enjoying a comforting meal.

Sodium Levels

Keep in mind that this casserole has around 900 mg of sodium per serving. It’s essential to be aware of this if you're monitoring your salt intake. Opting for low-sodium broth can help bring these levels down without sacrificing flavor!

If you're keen to learn more about the nutritional benefits of ingredients like chicken and cheese, consider checking resources like the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData.

FAQs about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is a fantastic option for your chicken cordon bleu casserole. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced before adding it to the dish. This is a great way to reduce food waste and save time on meal prep!

How can I make it gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of this delicious casserole, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. Your casserole will still be creamy and flavorful. Moreover, ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free; many brands offer suitable options.

What substitutions can I make for the dairy?
If you're looking to make your casserole dairy-free, consider using almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk. For creamy elements, cashew cream or a dairy-free sour cream can be great alternatives. Always check labels to ensure your substitutes cater to your dietary needs.

For more tips on making easy casseroles, check out this guide for additional recipes and cooking advice!

Conclusion on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

In summary, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just a delightful dish; it’s a wonderful solution for meal planning. With its creamy layers and comforting taste, it will surely become a family favorite. Plus, the option to prep ahead makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Enjoy!