Chicken cordon bleu, that delightful combination of crispy-crusted chicken, melted cheese, and savory ham, is a beloved dish. But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness in a convenient, crowd-pleasing casserole format? This recipe takes the best parts of chicken cordon bleu and transforms them into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
What Makes this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe Unique?
This isn't your average casserole. We've focused on creating a recipe that balances ease of preparation with exceptional flavor and texture. We're not just layering ingredients; we're building layers of flavor and ensuring each bite is a satisfying experience. The creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked chicken, and the crispy topping all work together to create a truly memorable dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 4 oz thinly sliced deli ham
- 8 oz shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
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For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (for extra cheesiness!)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts (slice horizontally almost all the way through to create a thinner, wider piece). Place a slice of ham and a generous amount of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks.
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Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove toothpicks.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce into the baking dish. Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. If using Gruyere cheese, sprinkle it over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses. Sharp cheddar would add a nice bite.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, uncovered, in the refrigerator. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold.
How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just skip the step of cooking the chicken in the skillet and add it directly to the casserole.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes.
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
