Cordon Bleu Comfort: Easy, Elegant Chicken Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved classic, with its layers of tender chicken, ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up and baked to perfection. This dish is one that traditionally requires a lot of intricate steps. However, I present to you a simpler version — a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that captures all the flavors but eliminates the fuss, perfect for any home cook, chicken lover, or casserole enthusiast out there.

Learn how to prepare a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that is sure to become a family favorite. Here’s what you’ll need.

List of Ingredients You'll Need

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
8 slices of ham
8 slices of Swiss cheese
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking spray

Ensure you have all the ingredients measured out and prepared before you start. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Layering the Casserole

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cream of chicken soup on the bottom.
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
Spread Dijon mustard on each chicken breast.
Place two slices of ham on each breast followed by two slices of Swiss cheese.

Step 3: Preparing the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese for the topping.
Pour the melted butter over the breadcrumb mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Breading the Casserole

Carefully cover the ham and cheese-topped chicken breasts with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 5: Making the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, lemon juice, thyme, and paprika until smooth.
Pour the sauce over the casserole, being sure to cover the breadcrumb layer.

Step 6: Baking the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
If desired, broil for a couple of minutes at the end to brown the breadcrumb topping.
Garnish with parsley before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Casserole Every Time

To save time, consider using a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shredding it for the casserole.
For a change in flavor, substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella.
Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking.
If you're watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and unsalted butter.
To prevent the top from getting too brown, cover with foil for the entire bake or reduce the broiling time.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This casserole is already a complete meal, but you can serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or a medley of roasted vegetables.

To add a pop of color and freshness to your plate, consider topping the chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving.

For drinks, a nice Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy casserole, or you can choose a light red wine if you prefer.

Conclusion and Encouragement to Share

I hope this guide has empowered you to take on the challenge of making a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. The layers of complex flavors and the heartiness of this dish make it a fantastic choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Remember, cooking is about creativity and sharing joy through food. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this casserole your own. And finally, share your creation with others — it's always great to spread the love. Happy cooking!