Welcome to a comforting twist on a gourmet classic with our Simplified Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This dish marries the refined tastes of the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu with the heartwarming familiarity of a baked casserole. Prepare yourself for a delightful blend of tender chicken and ham enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.
Updated Ingredients List:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 cup chicken stock, low sodium preferred
- 2 tsp sherry for cooking
- 1 tbsp smooth Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp granulated garlic
- ¼ tsp thyme, dried
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese
- 4 cups of cooked, shredded or diced chicken
- 8 oz diced ham
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs for a crisp finish
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter for the breadcrumbs
Cooking Instructions:
- Heat Your Oven: Warm up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Apply a light coat of butter or cooking spray to a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Craft the Creamy Sauce: Over medium heat, melt the 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste and cook for about a minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken stock, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens into a sauce. Incorporate the sherry, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, granulated garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, and sea salt, letting the sauce simmer briefly before removing from heat.
- Cheese Mix Preparation: Combine both types of cheese in a separate bowl, setting aside half for the final layer and blending the other half into the warm sauce until smooth.
- Layering the Casserole: Distribute the chicken and ham evenly across the base of your prepared dish. Pour the sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- Topping: Stir the melted butter into the Panko breadcrumbs for added richness, then scatter this mixture over the sauce before topping with the remaining cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the oven, baking for about 25 to 30 minutes or until you see a golden crust form and the sauce bubbles at the edges.
- Ready to Enjoy: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes after baking for easier serving. This dish combines all the cherished flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a format that’s both easy to prepare and a joy to share.
Final Thoughts:
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings a touch of gourmet to everyday dining, blending creamy, cheesy goodness with the comforting textures of a home-baked casserole. It’s a recipe that proves elegance doesn’t have to be complicated, offering a perfect dish for dinners, gatherings, or any time you crave something special. Enjoy the layered flavors and textures that make this casserole a new classic in your culinary repertoire.