Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole 🍴: A Gourmet Dish Made Easy with This Creamy, Cheesy, One-Pan Wonder


 

This recipe combines gourmet flavors with effortless preparation. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness if needed.
  2. Spread a slice of ham over each chicken breast, followed by a sprinkle of Swiss cheese. Roll up tightly or stack the ingredients flat depending on preference.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the prepared chicken pieces in the bottom of the dish, leaving a little space between each piece. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until bubbly.
  2. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Sprinkle half of the remaining Swiss cheese over the top.

Step 5: Add the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers (or breadcrumb mixture) with melted butter. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  1. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Use Quality Cheese : Freshly shredded Swiss cheese melts better and adds superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken : Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly without drying out.
  • Experiment with Variations : Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair.
  • Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.


Conclusion

With its luxurious flavors and convenient one-pan method, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself to a special dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and prepare to indulge in one seriously delicious creation. Happy cooking! 🍴

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