Chicken Cordon Bleu A Tasty Dish
I remember a time I was traveling through the French countryside, visiting small towns and tasting the local cuisine. Each region had its specialties, from rustic breads and cheeses to delicate pastries. It was during this trip that I realized how diverse and flavorful French food could be, even in the simplest dishes. One meal that stood out to me was a version of Chicken Cordon Bleu, served at a small family-owned restaurant. It was so beautifully crafted, with tender chicken, rich cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. I was inspired by that dish, and many years later, when I discovered the idea of a casserole version, my own Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole was born. It captures the essence of that original dish but in a form that's easier to prepare and share with loved ones.
Did You Know?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic French dish. Instead of individual rolls, this casserole combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The name "Cordon Bleu" translates to "blue ribbon," which was originally a term of excellence awarded to top chefs. This casserole offers the same rich flavors and elegant presentation as the traditional dish but in a more convenient and family-friendly form. The golden breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch to the creamy interior, making each bite a delightful experience.
Recipe:
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (ensure gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Personal Tip: Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper while it’s cooking to enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
Prepare the Casserole Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Personal Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the mixture before baking.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
Personal Tip: For added crunch, mix a bit of melted butter with the breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top.
Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Personal Tip: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Personal Tip: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400; Fat: 20g; Saturated Fat: 10g; Carbohydrates: 20g; Fiber: 2g; Sugars: 4g; Protein: 35g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Bulk Buying: Purchase chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run. Store chicken and ham in the freezer in portioned bags for easy access.
- Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup: If store-bought condensed cream of chicken soup is expensive or contains unwanted additives, consider making your own using chicken broth, milk, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and ingredients. Make a large batch and freeze in portions for future use.
- Reusable Baking Tools: Invest in reusable baking dishes and silicone mats. These tools are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options. They also make cleanup easier and more efficient.
- Energy Efficiency: Cook large batches of chicken and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient. You can use the cooked chicken in various dishes throughout the week, including salads, soups, and sandwiches.
- Smart Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days, providing a convenient and delicious meal throughout the week. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If certain ingredients are unavailable or too expensive, consider substituting them with more affordable alternatives. For example, use turkey instead of ham, or substitute the Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your casserole, such as a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, to add a unique twist to your dish. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.
- DIY Breadcrumbs: Make your own breadcrumbs using stale bread or leftover bread crusts. Simply toast the bread until dry and then process in a food processor until finely ground. This is a great way to reduce food waste and save money.
- Learning and Sharing: Join online cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
- Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your casserole by garnishing with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated cheese. These additions not only add flavor but also make the dish more appealing and enjoyable to eat. Serving the casserole with colorful side dishes like a simple salad or roasted vegetables can also elevate the presentation.
Let’s Learn About Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
Condensed cream of chicken soup is a thick, flavorful base used in many comfort food recipes, including casseroles, sauces, and soups. It’s made by simmering chicken broth, milk or cream, and flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent. The result is a rich, creamy mixture that can be diluted with water or milk for a lighter consistency or used as is for a thicker sauce.
How It’s Prepared: Traditional recipes for condensed cream of chicken soup begin with a chicken broth base, which is then thickened with flour or cornstarch. Milk or cream is added to give it a smooth, rich texture. Some versions also include small pieces of cooked chicken and seasoning such as salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Commercial versions often add preservatives and stabilizers to ensure shelf life.
What to Watch For on the Label:
- Additives and Preservatives: Many store-bought varieties include monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium as a preservative, and corn syrup solids to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. If you’re looking for a cleaner product, opt for brands that have simpler, more natural ingredients.
- High Sodium Content: Condensed soups often contain high amounts of sodium for flavor preservation, so look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Allergens: Some brands may contain additives like soy or wheat. For those with dietary restrictions, check for gluten-free or dairy-free labels if needed.
When purchasing condensed cream of chicken soup, choose brands with fewer processed ingredients, or consider making a homemade version for more control over the contents.