Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Creamy Delight with a Crunchy Topping

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the creamy and flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This delectable dish combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family. In this article, I will share with you my favorite recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, along with some variations and helpful tips to make it even more delicious. So let’s get started and dive into this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need to create this amazing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 8 slices of ham

– 8 slices of Swiss cheese

– 1 cup of mayonnaise

– 1 cup of heavy cream

– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard

– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

– 1 cup of breadcrumbs

– 2 tablespoons of melted butter

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps by Step Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s start preparing this mouthwatering Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Insert a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese into each pocket.

Step 2: Making the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assembling the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each breast is well coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top, and then drizzle the melted butter over the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Baking the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This creamy and cheesy dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. Enjoy!

Keto and Low Carb Variations

If you’re following a keto or low carb diet, you can still indulge in the deliciousness of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with a few simple modifications:

– Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crunchy topping that fits your dietary needs.

– Use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to reduce the carb content of the creamy sauce.

– Serve the casserole with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or pasta.

Tips for a Perfect Casserole

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole turns out perfect every time:

– Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing them to ensure they cook evenly.

– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

– Customize the casserole by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the creamy sauce.

– Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy and comforting way. With a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat your family to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So give it a try and savor the creamy goodness of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!