Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish, but it can be time-consuming to prepare individual cutlets. This easy casserole offers all the delicious flavors of chicken cordon bleu in a convenient, one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a recipe that's sure to become a family favorite, offering a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will love. This recipe takes inspiration from popular Allrecipes-style casseroles, focusing on simplicity and delicious results.
What Makes This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Easy?
This recipe streamlines the traditional chicken cordon bleu preparation. Instead of individually wrapping each chicken breast, we layer everything in a casserole dish for effortless assembly and even cooking. The result is a juicy, flavorful casserole that requires minimal cleanup—a major win for busy cooks!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces sliced deli ham
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Combine the soup, milk, mayonnaise, thyme, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
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In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the chicken pieces. Top with half of the ham and half of the shredded Swiss cheese.
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Repeat the layers: Add the remaining chicken, ham, and cheese.
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Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (Addressing potential "People Also Ask" queries)
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for cordon bleu, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, provolone, or even a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Feel free to get creative and find your favorite cheese combination!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to bake it.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like broccoli or asparagus), or a simple green salad. It's also delicious with rice pilaf or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole a bit healthier, you can use reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables, such as chopped mushrooms or spinach, to boost the nutritional value. Using whole-wheat bread crumbs as a topping (if desired) is another healthy option.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. For best results, freeze it before baking. Allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking, adding some extra time to the baking instructions. Baked casseroles can also be frozen, but the texture might be slightly different upon reheating.
This easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its convenience, delicious flavor, and versatility make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or your next special occasion meal. Enjoy!
