Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Discover a quick and delicious take on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with this easy casserole recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish features layers of tender chicken, savory ham, creamy cheese, and flavorful rice. With one-pot preparation and simple ingredients, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy gourmet flavors at home. Keywords: chicken casserole, easy dinner recipe, comfort food.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (adjust based on rice package instructions)
• 1 ¼ cups white long-grain rice, uncooked
• 10.75 oz. cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 8 oz. ham steak or 1 cup diced ham
• 9 slices Swiss cheese

For the Topping:

• ⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 Tablespoon melted butter

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Instructions

Prep Work

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice in a strainer under cool water for 1 minute to remove excess starch. This prevents sticking during cooking.
2. Shred the Cheese: Shred the cheddar cheese and let it come to room temperature for better melting. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it contains cellulose, which hinders melting.
3. Cook the Chicken (if needed): If using uncooked chicken, dice it, season with salt and pepper, and sauté in butter until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
4. Measure Ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients for smooth cooking.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, garlic powder, and thyme, and cook for another minute.
3. Cook the Rice: Stir in olive oil, chicken broth, and rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 15 minutes without stirring. Turn off the heat and let it sit with the lid on for 10 minutes to release any stuck rice.
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, and ham until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Arrange Swiss cheese slices evenly on top. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Add the Topping: Mix melted butter and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the casserole and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: This casserole combines the beloved flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a simplified, family-friendly dish.
• One-Pot Convenience: Prepare all the ingredients in one pot for minimal cleanup.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

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Tips

• Perfect Rice: Ensure you rinse the rice to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
• Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Cooked Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
• Avoid Overcooking: Follow the rice cooking times for optimal texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Different Proteins: Swap ham for cooked bacon or turkey for a twist.
• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and ham, and add sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli.

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FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Portion the cooled casserole into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What other cheeses can I use? Gruyere or mozzarella can replace Swiss cheese for a different flavor.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Sides: Garlic bread or roasted potatoes complement this dish beautifully.
• Beverages: Pair with a light white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water infused with lemon.

Enjoy this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole as a delicious and hearty meal that’s sure to impress!