Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings together the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy, baked casserole. Instead of rolling and breading individual chicken breasts, this recipe simplifies the process by layering the ingredients and baking them with a rich, velvety sauce. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making this dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups cubed ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until thickened.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cooked chicken evenly in the dish.
- Spread the cubed ham over the chicken.
- Sprinkle Swiss and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layers.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parsley flakes.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious, hassle-free way to enjoy the flavors of the classic dish. Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal! 🍽️
For another variation, check out this recipe.