Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time and freeze it before baking?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and freeze it before baking. To avoid sogginess, do not add the panko breadcrumb topping before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then add the breadcrumbs. Bake it at 350°F until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown.

What can I use if I want to avoid flour for thickening the casserole sauce?

If you need a flour-free option to thicken the sauce, cornstarch or xanthan gum work well as substitutes. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce to prevent lumps. This keeps the sauce creamy without altering the flavor.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely. Swiss cheese can be replaced with other mild, melty cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, Havarti, or Gruyere. These cheeses provide a similar texture and flavor balance that complements the chicken and ham, though the taste may vary slightly based on the cheese used.

Is it okay to use raw cubed chicken instead of rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

You can use raw cubed chicken, but make sure it’s fully cooked before assembling the casserole. Sauté or bake the chicken pieces until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure the casserole cooks evenly and remains safe to eat.

Why might there be watery liquid pooling at the bottom of my baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Water pooling can happen if the chicken releases excess moisture or if skim milk is used in the sauce, as it lacks enough fat to thicken properly. To prevent this, use milk with at least 2% fat and pat your chicken dry before assembling. Cooking the sauce slowly and stirring frequently also helps achieve a thicker consistency.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe With Cheese And Ham

Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: PT-492016H11M3S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 5 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken – The base for the hearty layers.; – 2 cups cubed ham – Adds that classic savory flavor.; – 4 tablespoons butter – Used for melting to start the cheese sauce.; – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the creamy sauce.; – 2 cups milk – Gradually whisked in for a smooth, rich base.; – 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Brings a tangy kick to the sauce.; – 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds a fresh, bright note.; – 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle, aromatic boost.; – 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors just right.; – 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese (about 5 ounces) – Melts into the sauce for creaminess.; – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a nutty finish to the sauce.; – 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – Tops the casserole for a crispy crunch.; – 2 tablespoons melted butter – Mixed with breadcrumbs for the golden topping.

Description

🍗 Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with creamy cheese and savory ham.
🧀 This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, offering a deliciously cheesy and crispy topping that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

– 5 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken – The base for the hearty layers.

– 2 cups cubed ham – Adds that classic savory flavor.

– 4 tablespoons butter – Used for melting to start the cheese sauce.

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the creamy sauce.

– 2 cups milk – Gradually whisked in for a smooth, rich base.

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Brings a tangy kick to the sauce.

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds a fresh, bright note.

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle, aromatic boost.

– 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors just right.

– 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese (about 5 ounces) – Melts into the sauce for creaminess.

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a nutty finish to the sauce.

– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – Tops the casserole for a crispy crunch.

– 2 tablespoons melted butter – Mixed with breadcrumbs for the golden topping.

Instructions

1-First, preheat the oven to 350°F. Gather and prepare all ingredients, shredding the cooked chicken and dicing the ham as needed. For dietary adaptations, substitute with vegan options or gluten-free ingredients to fit your preferences, and remember to use rotisserie chicken for ease.

2-Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the 5 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 2 cups cubed ham, and the creamy cheese sauce. The cheese sauce is made by melting 4 tablespoons butter, stirring in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, then gradually whisking in 2 cups milk along with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Simmer until thickened, then mix in 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

3-Once combined, transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Top with a mixture of 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons melted butter for that crispy finish. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly, then let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

🍗 Use rotisserie or leftover chicken to simplify preparation.
🧀 Substitute Swiss cheese with mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar for different flavors.
🍞 Use Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping; the casserole can be frozen without breadcrumbs.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Bake time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Main Dish, Casserole
Method: Baking, Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu, Casserole Recipe, Creamy Cheese, Ham Casserole