Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6-8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles (homemade or store-bought); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup ham, diced; 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, savory goodness of lasagna. Now, imagine taking that classic Italian-American staple and giving it a delightful twist—enter Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna. This dish combines the beloved flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese, layered together with pasta and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a gourmet comfort food experience that is perfect for dinner parties or easy weeknight meals. With its deliciously cheesy layers and a hint of sophistication, this lasagna is bound to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Steps / Instructions

Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the noodles: If using homemade lasagna noodles, prepare them according to your recipe. If using store-bought, cook in boiling water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the creamy cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Add the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Mix the ricotta filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Layer the lasagna: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy cheese sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the shredded chicken and ham. Sprinkle one cup of Swiss cheese over the top. Repeat the layering process, starting again with the sauce, followed by noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, chicken, ham, and another cup of Swiss cheese.
Finish the lasagna: Top with the final layer of noodles, the remaining cheese sauce, and the rest of the Swiss cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake: Place the lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes covered. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let it rest: Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set for better serving.

Tips & Tricks

Storage: Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Make-ahead option: You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Avoiding soggy noodles: Ensure your noodles are not overcooked initially, as they will continue to soften while baking.
Common mistakes: Don’t skip the resting time after baking; this is crucial for the lasagna to hold its shape when sliced.
Professional technique: Use a sharp knife to slice the lasagna and a spatula to serve for cleaner portions.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken and ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delightful meatless version.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini slices in place of traditional noodles.
Flavor variations: Add herbs like thyme or parsley to the ricotta mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

For an inviting presentation, garnish the Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna with chopped parsley or fresh basil. Serve alongside a crisp green salad and garlic bread to create a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, enhances the flavors and makes for an excellent pairing. You can learn more about this topic.

With this Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna recipe, you’re all set to create a dish that combines the comforting familiarity of lasagna with the savory flavors of chicken and ham. Give it a try at your next dinner gathering and enjoy the delightful responses from your guests! Check out our related guide for more tips.