Craving a comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with the wholesome goodness of broccoli? This easy casserole brings together tender chicken, savory ham, and melty cheese in a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection with broccoli for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shredded cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the bite-sized ham pieces over the chicken layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend melted butter, softened cream cheese, dijon mustard, lemon juice, white wine (optional), and salt until a thick sauce forms. Pour this sauce over the chicken and ham layers in the baking dish.
- Lay slices of swiss cheese evenly over the sauce-covered chicken and ham. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until it is thoroughly heated and bubbly.
- For a golden and bubbly cheese topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (approximately 2 pounds of chicken)
- 6 ounces ham, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 ounces butter, melted
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
- 1 ounce lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 ounces Swiss cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2712 | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 204g | Fat: 204g | Saturated Fat: 102g | Cholesterol: 984mg | Sodium: 5496mg | Potassium: 2088mg | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 4920IU | Vitamin C: 8.4mg | Calcium: 1074mg | Iron: 4.8mg
FAQ
- What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a simplified version of traditional chicken cordon bleu. It combines chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy Dijon sauce, baked together without the need for breading or stuffing.
- How can I make the casserole more flavorful if my chicken is dry?
- If your chicken is on the dry side, consider doubling the sauce or adding 1/4 cup of chicken broth to mix with the shredded chicken before layering on the toppings.
- What side dishes complement Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
- This rich dish pairs well with lighter sides like a green salad, roasted green beans, steamed cauliflower, or roasted asparagus.
- What can I use if I don’t like Swiss cheese?
- If Swiss cheese isn’t to your liking, feel free to substitute it with other mild cheeses such as provolone, mozzarella, or Havarti to suit your family’s taste preferences.
- Can I use chicken tenderloins instead of shredded chicken?
- Yes, you can use chicken tenderloins. Simply cook them, drain the liquid, and proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed.
- Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?
- While white wine can enhance the flavor of the sauce, it is optional. You may skip it if you prefer or if you don’t have an open bottle.
Tips
- Adjust the Cheese to Taste: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with other mild cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or Havarti to better suit your family’s preferences.
- Ensure Juicy Chicken: To maintain a moist and flavorful casserole, make sure your chicken is not dry. If necessary, increase the sauce quantity by 1.5 times or even double it if your chicken is on the drier side.
- Simplify with Tenderloins: For an easier preparation, use chicken tenderloins instead of shredded chicken. Bake them, drain the liquid, and proceed with layering the casserole without needing to shred the chicken.
- Watch the Broiling: If you decide to broil the cheese at the end for a golden finish, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The cheese can quickly go from perfect to overdone if left unattended.
Equipment
- Electric mixer – for blending the sauce ingredients until a thick sauce forms.
- 9 x 13 baking dish – for layering and baking the casserole.
