Can you really make chicken cordon bleu in a casserole form and have it turn out just as delicious? This quick and easy homemade dinner features ham and Swiss cheese layered with chicken in not one, but two pans for a weeknight dinner solution. Save this idea for a tasty family favorite to try soon.

chicken cordon bleu casserole recipe in two pans

Introduction

The chicken cordon bleu casserole is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and presentation, all while being remarkably easy to prepare. By using everyday ingredients in a creative way, this recipe transforms a classic dish into a convenient, crowd-pleasing casserole. The essence of chicken cordon bleu, with its ham, cheese, and chicken breast, is preserved and amplified in a format that’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions. The best part? It’s all achieved in just two pans, making it a practical choice for those looking to minimize cleanup without sacrificing flavor or flair.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, all using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the chicken cordon bleu casserole is surprisingly simple to prepare. The two-pan method streamlines the cooking process, reducing overall preparation and cooking time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layering of flavors and textures creates a dish that looks like it requires much more effort than it actually does, making it perfect for entertaining or special meals.

Key Ingredients

The core of this recipe revolves around a few key ingredients: chicken breasts, ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce. The chicken breasts provide the base protein, while the ham and Swiss cheese add the classic cordon bleu flavors. A creamy sauce, which can be made with a combination of cream, broth, and cheese, binds the dish together. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using turkey ham for a leaner option or different types of cheese for varying flavor profiles. Additionally, frozen puff pastry can be thawed and used to add a flaky, golden crust to the top of the casserole, though this is optional.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients: chop the ham into small pieces, slice the Swiss cheese, and season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
2. Step 2: In one pan, cook the chicken breasts until they are browned on both sides and cooked through. This can be done on the stovetop with a little oil or in the oven. Once cooked, let the chicken rest before slicing it into strips.
3. Step 3: In the second pan, prepare the creamy sauce. Start by sautéing some onions and garlic until they’re soft, then add in your cream, broth, and grated cheese. Let this simmer until the sauce thickens. Add the chopped ham to the sauce and stir well to combine.
4. Step 4: To assemble the casserole, place a layer of the creamy ham sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by a layer of sliced chicken, and then a layer of Swiss cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. If using puff pastry, place it over the top layer of cheese and cut a few slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pastry (if using) is golden brown.

Handy Tips

• When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent even browning. Cook the chicken breasts one or two at a time to achieve the best results.
• For the creamy sauce, using a combination of cream and broth helps to balance the richness and saltiness. You can also add some dried or fresh herbs to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Don’t overfill the baking dish, as the casserole will expand a bit during baking. Leave about half an inch of space at the top to prevent overflowing.

Heat Control

Controlling the heat is crucial, especially when cooking the chicken and the creamy sauce. For the chicken, medium-high heat is ideal for browning, but reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to finish cooking the chicken through without burning the outside. For the sauce, simmering over low heat helps to thicken the sauce without burning it. When baking the casserole, a moderate oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the pastry (if used) cooks perfectly without burning.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish can come from a couple of sources: the crispy, golden-brown pastry on top (if you choose to use it) and the textured layers of chicken, ham, and cheese beneath. To achieve a nice crunch on the pastry, make sure it’s thawed properly and brush it with a little bit of egg wash before baking. This helps the pastry to brown nicely. For the layers beneath, the slight browning on the chicken and the crispy edges of the ham add to the textural experience of the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• One of the best shortcuts in this recipe is using pre-sliced ham and cheese. This saves time on preparation and ensures that your layers are evenly sized.
• For a quicker cleanup, line your baking dish with parchment paper before assembling the casserole. This makes removing the casserole and cleaning the dish much easier.
• Consider preparing components of the dish ahead of time. The creamy sauce, for example, can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until needed.

Storage Tips

• Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it in a covered container to prevent drying out.
• For reheating, the casserole can be warmed up in the oven at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be cautious of the cheese melting unevenly.
• The casserole can also be frozen before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this casserole, perhaps for a new neighbor or a friend in need of a meal, consider packaging it in a way that’s both practical and appealing. Bake the casserole in a disposable aluminum pan to make it easy for the recipient to reheat and serve without worrying about returning a dish. Wrap the pan in foil and then in a decorative towel or bag, and include a card with reheating instructions. For an extra touch, include a side, such as a salad or garlic bread, packaged in a separate container.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding some dried thyme or rosemary to the chicken or the creamy sauce can give the dish a more herbal flavor profile.
• Creative toppings: Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach on top of the casserole before baking for added flavor and nutrients.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free broth and be mindful of the ingredients in the creamy sauce. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or pork for a different twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the casserole turns out too dry, it might be because the chicken was overcooked or the sauce didn’t have enough cream. Conversely, if it’s too soggy, the sauce might have been too thin or the casserole was covered too tightly during baking.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have Swiss cheese, other melting cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can be used, though they’ll change the flavor slightly.
• Over/undercooking signs: The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pastry should be golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned on top.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the casserole can be frozen before baking. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe as written contains gluten due to the broth and potentially the ham. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free broth and ensuring the ham and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled. Just ensure you have a large enough baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly, as a larger casserole will take longer to heat through.

Conclusion

The chicken cordon bleu casserole in two pans is a versatile, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish to prepare. With its layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy sauce, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, this casserole delivers. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and flavor variations to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to share your own culinary creations.