Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken breasts with savory ham, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 lb shaved ham
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 package Italian dressing mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375˚F.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Italian dressing mix, and Dijon mustard until combined.
- Step 3: Lay the chicken breasts flat in the bottom of a large casserole dish. Divide the ham equally among the chicken breasts and place it on top of each one. Then spread the soup mixture evenly over the entire casserole.
- Step 4: Lay the provolone cheese slices evenly over the soup mixture. Finally, sprinkle the panko bread crumbs on top.
- Step 5: Bake on the middle rack for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F.
- Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Substitute Swiss cheese for provolone to stay closer to traditional cordon bleu flavors.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the soup mixture for added texture and nutrients.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of panko for a softer topping.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result, but adjust the baking time accordingly as they may cook faster or slower depending on thickness.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs and ensure the cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix are gluten-free varieties.
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3 to 4 1x
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe offers a delicious and simpler twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu, using layers of chicken breasts, shaved ham, creamy sauce, provolone cheese, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, all baked together to perfection. It’s a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3 chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 lb shaved ham
Dairy & Sauces
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Pantry
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 package Italian dressing mix
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 375˚F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Sauce. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Italian dressing mix, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Layers. Arrange the chicken breasts flat in the bottom of a large casserole dish. Evenly distribute the shaved ham over each chicken breast. Pour and spread the prepared soup mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and ham layers.
- Add Cheese and Topping. Lay the provolone cheese slices evenly on top of the sauce layer. Finally, sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the cheese to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake. Place the casserole in the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F, and the top is golden and crisp.
- Serve. Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and crispy chicken casserole as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce for a fresher taste.
- Use low-fat sour cream to reduce fat content if desired.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound thinner if needed.
- The panko crumbs can be replaced with crushed Ritz crackers for a different crunchy texture.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, baked chicken recipe, easy casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, Italian dressing chicken recipe
