Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish, but it can be time-consuming to prepare individual pieces. This recipe transforms the beloved dish into a simple, crowd-pleasing bake, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This easy chicken cordon bleu casserole is packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's define what chicken cordon bleu actually is. It's a dish of boneless chicken breast wrapped around sliced ham and cheese, then breaded and pan-fried or baked. The "cordon bleu" part refers to the blue ribbon, signifying the dish's high quality and sophisticated taste. Our bake simplifies the process while maintaining that classic flavor profile.
Ingredients for the Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for your group size.
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly pounded (about 6)
- Ham: 6-8 slices of deli ham
- Cheese: 6-8 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyere for a richer flavor)
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.75 oz)
- Milk: ½ cup
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring they are all roughly the same size. This helps them cook evenly.
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Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Lay out a slice of ham, top with a slice of cheese, and place a chicken breast on top. Roll the chicken breast tightly around the ham and cheese, securing it with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Bake the Cordon Bleu: Place the chicken rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
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Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used. Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss and Gruyere are classic choices, but you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend. Just keep in mind that some cheeses might melt more readily than others.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken cordon bleu rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the sauce and breadcrumbs before baking.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
This bake pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before assembling.
- If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make your own creamy sauce using milk, butter, and mushrooms.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish. This will ensure even cooking.
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
This chicken cordon bleu bake is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
