Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Biscuit Bake?
It is a comforting casserole featuring cooked chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with refrigerated biscuits and breadcrumbs.
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of cooked chicken, which should be cubed. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works very well.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this bake?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds excellent flavor to the dish.
What type of ham is recommended?
You should use 1/2 cup of cooked and cubed ham. Deli-sliced ham cut into chunks or leftover holiday ham are both perfect.
What size baking dish do I need?
You should use an 11x7 inch baking dish to ensure the ingredients are layered properly and cook evenly.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, while Swiss is traditional for Cordon Bleu, you can substitute it with Gruyere, Provolone, or white Cheddar if you prefer.
How do I make the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with melted butter and flour, then gradually whisking in milk until the mixture is thickened and smooth.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the biscuits have turned golden brown.
Can I use homemade biscuits instead of refrigerated ones?
Yes, you can use your favorite homemade biscuit dough; just ensure they are flattened slightly and baked until fully cooked.
What kind of milk is best for the sauce?
The recipe suggests using 1 cup of milk, which can be either whole milk or 2% depending on your preference.
Should I flatten the biscuits before putting them on the casserole?
Yes, gently flatten each biscuit in your palm before placing them over the cheese layer to help them cook evenly.
What is the purpose of the Italian breadcrumbs?
The breadcrumbs are sprinkled on top of the biscuits to add extra texture and a savory flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily customize the dish by adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or peas into the chicken and ham mixture.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, because it uses cooked chicken and refrigerated biscuits, the assembly and bake time are relatively short, making it ideal for weeknights.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 233 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
A serving of this biscuit bake contains about 14 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are approximately 12 grams of protein per serving.
Are there many carbohydrates in this recipe?
Each serving has about 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture ahead of time, but it is best to add the biscuits and bake just before serving for the best texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best consumed within 3 to 4 days.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheating in the oven at 350ยฐF will help maintain the crispness of the biscuits, though a microwave can be used for convenience.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, cubed cooked turkey is an excellent substitute for chicken in this recipe.
What if I don't have Italian breadcrumbs?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and add a small amount of dried Italian seasoning, or even crushed crackers.
Does the recipe require salt and pepper?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, but you can adjust these to your taste.
Is the chicken and ham mixture supposed to be hot before adding biscuits?
The mixture is heated in a saucepan first, then spread into the dish, ensuring it is ready to bubble quickly once it hits the oven.
Can I use a larger can of biscuits?
If you use a larger can, you may need a larger baking dish or you might need to overlap the biscuits more significantly.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and soft biscuit topping make this a favorite for many children.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
While not explicitly required by the recipe, lightly greasing the 11x7 dish can help prevent the sauce from sticking.