Introduction
Craving a comforting and mouthwatering dish? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines all the classic flavors of the beloved dish in an easy-to-make casserole form. Enjoy tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy sauce topped with crunchy Ritz crackers—perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Egg noodles – 340 g, cooked and drained
Cooked chicken – 300-450 g, shredded or diced
Cooked ham – 150-225 g, diced
Cream of chicken soup – 298 ml can
Swiss cheese – 100-150 g, shredded
Salt, pepper, and dried parsley – to taste
Ritz crackers – 1 to 1½ sleeves, crushed (approx. 190-285 g)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded or diced chicken, diced ham, and cream of chicken soup. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, reserving some for topping.
4. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and dried parsley to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Sprinkle the reserved Swiss cheese on top of the casserole.
7. Evenly spread the crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
9. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready to bake the casserole to perfection.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend the cooked egg noodles with the shredded or diced chicken and diced ham. Pour in the cream of chicken soup and mix everything well, ensuring that the noodles and meats are fully coated.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Gently fold in the shredded Swiss cheese, taking care to reserve some for the topping later. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and dried parsley to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure an even cooking process.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the reserved Swiss cheese generously over the top of the casserole, creating a cheesy layer that will melt beautifully during baking.
Step 6: Add Crushed Ritz Crackers
Crush the Ritz crackers into fine pieces and evenly distribute them over the cheesy layer. This will create a satisfying crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy base.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for the casserole to be hot and bubbly with the cracker topping becoming a lovely golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This will make it easier to dish out. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!
Notes
Cooking Chicken
If you haven’t cooked your chicken yet, poach or grill the chicken breast until fully cooked, then shred or dice it to use in the casserole.
Ham Options
Feel free to use leftover ham or any variety that you prefer, such as smoked or honey glazed, for added flavor.
Cheese Variations
While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead Tips
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Cook Techniques
Boiling Egg Noodles
To cook the egg noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Shredding Cooked Chicken
To shred cooked chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can chop it into small cubes for a different texture.
Dicing Cooked Ham
For dicing cooked ham, place the ham on a cutting board and slice it into strips before cutting those strips into small cubes.
Mixing Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that the cream of chicken soup coats the noodles and meats evenly for balanced flavor.
Layering in the Baking Dish
When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, spread it evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Press down gently to eliminate air pockets.
Baking the Casserole
Preheat your oven before baking the casserole, allowing it to cook evenly. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, ensuring the cheese and cracker topping are well-cooked.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, depending on your preference.
Can I use uncooked chicken?
While you can use uncooked chicken, it is recommended to cook it first to ensure proper cooking time and food safety.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Experience the perfect fusion of flavors with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, bringing the taste of a classic dish into a simple and delightful casserole that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Its comforting blend of chicken, ham, and creamy sauce topped with a crunchy cracker layer makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends.
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