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Turn the fancy Chicken Cordon Bleu into a simple, warm casserole with this stacked treat. The mix of soft shredded chicken, black forest ham, and Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a rich Dijon sauce and topped with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, makes a dish that's both fancy and easy to make.
I've tweaked this dish in my kitchen many times and found it brings the same happiness as the original Chicken Cordon Bleu but needs way less work.
Complete Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken: Go for soft, shredded chicken for the best feel
- Ham: Black Forest ham gives the deepest flavor
- Swiss Cheese: Fresh-cut slices melt wonderfully
- Dijon Mustard: Brings that classic tangy kick
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Makes the perfect crunchy top
- Whole Milk: Gives you that creamy, full sauce
Crafting Casserole Wonder
- Set The Foundation:
- Spread chicken flat for even eating.
- Place The Meats:
- Put ham down so it covers everything.
- Stack The Cheese:
- Lay Swiss pieces with edges touching.
- Nail The Sauce:
- Stir gently for a smooth, velvety mix.
- Finish With Crumbs:
- Spread the buttery Panko mix all over.
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From what I've learned, making perfect sauce needs slow stirring and adding milk little by little. 'Don't rush the sauce,' my cooking teacher always told me, 'it's what makes the whole dish work.'
Complete Your Dinner
Pair with some cooked asparagus, a crunchy green salad, or buttery egg noodles. For fancy nights, pour some white wine sauce on top.
Fun Twists To Try
Switch up this casserole using Gruyère cheese, throwing in cooked mushrooms, or adding layers of spinach. For extra taste, mix herbs into your breadcrumb topping.
Keeping It Fresh
Keep it covered in your fridge for up to three days. Warm it in the oven to keep that top nice and crispy.
After lots of cooking tests in my kitchen, I've found this casserole hits the sweet spot between old-school cooking and modern ease. When you make each part carefully, you end up with a dish that brings some class to your everyday meals.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use precooked chicken?
- Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is perfect and cuts your prep time in half.
- → How far in advance can I prep?
- You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead. Just wait to add the Panko till you're ready to bake.
- → What sides pair well?
- Pair it with some fresh veggies or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- → Can this casserole be frozen?
- You can freeze it without the Panko topping. Let it thaw overnight, add the topping, and bake fresh.
- → Why is my sauce runny?
- Make sure to stir constantly and cook long enough to fully combine the flour before adding the milk.