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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner with Ham and Swiss

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with golden panko topping in white baking dish
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Classic chicken cordon bleu flavors transformed into an easy casserole with layers of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce topped with crispy panko.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups shredded chicken (cooked and shredded)
  • 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips (about 9 slices)
  • 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese (about 12 thin slices)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, optional
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Evenly spread 5 cups of shredded chicken into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Layer 9 ounces of sliced black forest ham, cut into strips, over the chicken.
  4. Place 8 ounces of sliced Swiss cheese evenly over the ham, overlapping slices to fit.
  5. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, salt, nutmeg (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using).
  6. Sprinkle in 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour and continue whisking over medium heat until it forms a blonde-colored paste, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Slowly add 3 cups whole milk, a quarter cup at a time, whisking after each addition until smooth before adding more.
  8. Once all milk is added, simmer for 4 minutes or until sauce has thickened, whisking occasionally.
  9. Pour sauce over cheese layer and spread evenly, making sure to reach all corners.
  10. Combine 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs and 4 tablespoons softened butter in a small bowl. Spread mixture evenly over casserole.
  11. Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until sauce is actively bubbling and panko topping is golden brown.
  12. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes to allow sauce to set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
  • Gruyere cheese can be substituted for Swiss for a more sophisticated flavor.
  • For gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Can be assembled ahead and frozen before baking. Thaw overnight before cooking, adding 10-15 minutes to bake time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/chicken-cordon-bleu-casserole/