
# **Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food**
If you love the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but want a simpler, no-fuss version, this **Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole** is for you! This dish takes all the delicious elements of the traditional recipeβshredded chicken, savory ham, and Swiss cheeseβand combines them into a creamy, baked casserole topped with a buttery, crunchy topping. Itβs quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
In this article, weβll walk you through the recipe, share tips for perfecting your casserole, and explore creative ways to serve and store it. Letβs get cooking!
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## **Why Youβll Love This Recipe**
1. **Easy and Quick:** No rolling or stuffingβjust mix, bake, and enjoy!
2. **Creamy and Cheesy:** Packed with classic Cordon Bleu flavors in every bite.
3. **Crunchy Topping:** The buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect texture contrast.
4. **Versatile:** Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
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## **The Ingredients: Simple and Satisfying**
### **For the Casserole Base:**
β **Cooked Chicken:** Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
β **Ham:** Chopped deli ham or leftover ham adds savory flavor.
β **Swiss Cheese:** Shredded for that classic Cordon Bleu taste.
β **Cream of Chicken Soup:** Creates a rich and creamy base.
β **Milk:** Thins out the sauce for the perfect consistency.
β **Dijon Mustard:** Adds a hint of tang and depth.
β **Garlic Powder and Black Pepper:** Season to taste.
### **For the Crunchy Topping:**
β **Panko Breadcrumbs (or Crushed Ritz Crackers):** Adds a crispy, golden crust.
β **Butter:** Melted for richness and to help the topping brown.
β **Dried Parsley:** Adds color and a touch of flavor.
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish**
1. Preheat your oven to **375Β°F (190Β°C)**.
2. Grease a **9Γ13-inch baking dish** with butter or nonstick spray.
### **2. Mix the Creamy Casserole Filling**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together **1 cup cream of chicken soup**, **Β½ cup milk**, **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard**, **Β½ teaspoon garlic powder**, and **Β½ teaspoon black pepper**.
2. Stir in **3 cups shredded chicken**, **8 slices chopped ham**, and **1 cup shredded Swiss cheese** until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
### **3. Make the Crunchy Topping**
1. In a small bowl, mix **1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)** with **ΒΌ cup melted butter** and **Β½ teaspoon dried parsley**.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
### **4. Bake to Golden Perfection**
1. Bake uncovered for **25β30 minutes**, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove from the oven and let sit for **5 minutes** before serving.
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## **How to Serve This Delicious Casserole**
β **With a Side Salad:** A fresh green salad balances out the richness.
β **Over Pasta or Rice:** Serve over cooked rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
β **With Roasted Veggies:** Pairs well with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
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## **Storage and Reheating Tips**
β **Refrigerate:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to **4 days**.
β **Reheat:** Warm in the oven at **350Β°F (175Β°C)** for **10β15 minutes** or in the microwave.
β **Freeze:** Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to **3 months**. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
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## **Why This Recipe is a Must-Try**
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Itβs creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite thatβs easier than ever to prepare. Whether youβre cooking for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress.
So, grab your ingredients, mix up a batch, and get ready to enjoy a meal thatβs as delicious as it is simple to make!
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π¬ **Whatβs your favorite way to enjoy Chicken Cordon Bleu? Share your thoughts, tips, or photos in the comments below! Letβs inspire each other with new ideas.** β¬οΈππ§β¨