Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Comfort food takes on a new shape with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! Packed with layers of tender chicken, savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. It’s a delightful twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu, combining all those beloved flavors in an easy-to-prepare casserole. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers for meal prep, this casserole is the perfect solution.

No need for complicated frying or fancy plating; this casserole comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just another dinner option; it’s a flavorful experience! The creamy sauce envelops tender pieces of chicken and savory ham, bringing comfort to every bite. It’s perfect for families, gatherings, or meal prep, and the best part? It comes together quickly.

The use of a crunchy Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful texture, while the melted Swiss cheese gives that classic cheesy goodness we all crave. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds—or thirds!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded and divided
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
• 1 cup ham, diced
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, shredded, for garnish

How To Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add in the flour and whisk to combine, creating a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, continuing until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for another minute or two, then remove from heat. Gently fold in ¾ cup of the Swiss cheese until it’s melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, chopped chicken, diced ham, and the creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with the remaining Swiss cheese and the crushed Ritz crackers. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top for an extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal!

Expert Tips

• For a richer flavor, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
• Add some broccoli or spinach into the mix for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• If you want a bit more zing, toss in some diced green onions or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute turkey for the chicken or use turkeyturkeyto keep the flavors similar but change up the protein.
• Swap out Swiss cheese for Gruyere or mozzarella for a different taste and texture.
• Use gluten-free noodles and crackers to make this dish gluten-free.
• For a lighter version, replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

How to Store Leftovers

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole makes great leftovers! After allowing it to cool, transfer any uneaten portions into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings until warm.

FAQ

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time and simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add extra baking time to ensure it cooks through completely.

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What types of noodles work best for this casserole?

Egg noodles are traditional for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente before mixing it into the casserole.

Is there an alternative to Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard as a substitute. Each will bring a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment with what you have available!

Conclusion

In the realm of comforting casseroles, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole deserves a special place. It combines the creamy, cheesy goodness we all love with the heartiness of chicken and ham, creating a dish that is both satisfying and convenient. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion requiring a little comfort food magic, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make a meal that will have everyone at the table smiling! Enjoy!