This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings all the flavors of the classic dish into a simple, comforting bake. With layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all covered in a creamy Dijon sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, this casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love.

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The History Behind the Ingredients

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a French-inspired dish that traditionally consists of chicken breast stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, breaded, and then fried or baked. By transforming this into a casserole, we simplify the preparation while maintaining all the delicious flavors. The Dijon cream sauce gives the dish a rich, tangy twist, elevating it from a basic casserole to a dish worthy of any dinner party.

Why Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Stands Out

This casserole is a wonderful weeknight meal because it delivers the flavor of a traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu but in a much more accessible and convenient format. The layers of juicy chicken, salty ham, and creamy cheese, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer, provide a variety of textures that make every bite exciting. The Dijon cream sauce ties everything together with a perfect balance of richness and tanginess.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• 
  Calories: 533 kcal
  Fat: 33g
  Carbohydrates: 16g
  Protein: 43g
  Sugar: 4g

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a side of mashed potatoes would also complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Storage Information:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Fun Fact:

The name "Cordon Bleu" translates to "Blue Ribbon" in French, originally referring to an award given for culinary excellence. Over time, the name was adopted by the culinary world to represent dishes that have reached a high standard of quality and taste. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole may not be the traditional version, but it certainly lives up to its name with its delicious combination of flavors.

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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Ingredients for the Dijon Cream Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1½ cups milk, skim or full cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chicken or vegetable stock/Bouillon powder
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, fresh grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, optional, for garnish

Ingredients for the Casserole:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
• 4 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups ham, diced
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, fresh grated
• Ingredients for the Casserole Topping:
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

4. Add the Dijon mustard, stock powder, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat.

5. Spread the broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked chicken and diced ham on top.

6. Pour the Dijon cream sauce over the chicken, ham, and broccoli, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

7. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.

8. In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.

9. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

10. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Optional Variations:

- For extra flavor, use a mix of Swiss and Gruyère cheeses.

- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Dijon cream sauce for a warm, earthy undertone.

- Substitute the broccoli with spinach or cauliflower for a different vegetable twist.

- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra ½ cup of milk to the sauce.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in an easy-to-make format. Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight meal or serve it at your next family gathering—it's sure to be a hit!