Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake with Rice
Indulge in this rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake with Rice, where tender diced chicken breasts and savory ham come together in a creamy sauce. Topped with golden breadcrumbs and served over fluffy rice, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Simple yet satisfying, each bite is a delightful fusion of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare, this casserole is a great way to enjoy a classic favorite with a modern twist.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked chicken breasts
6 (diced)
diced cooked ham
2 cups (or deli slices)
cream of chicken soup
2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans (none)
sour cream
1 cup (none)
Monterey Jack cheese
1 1/2 cups (grated)
breadcrumbs
2 cups (seasoned dressing)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a greased 3-quart casserole dish, layer the diced chicken and ham evenly across the bottom.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and grated Monterey Jack cheese until well blended.
4
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and ham, ensuring it covers evenly.
5
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
6
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumbs evenly on top.
7
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to crisp up.
8
Serve the delicious casserole over a bed of cooked rice and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
It is a rich and comforting casserole featuring diced chicken and savory ham in a creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and served over rice.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 6 cooked chicken breasts, 2 cups of diced ham, 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1.5 cups of Monterey Jack cheese, and 2 cups of seasoned breadcrumbs.
How long does it take to bake?
The casserole bakes for 35-40 minutes initially, plus an additional 5 minutes to crisp the breadcrumbs.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver for the 6 cooked chicken breasts required.
What type of ham is best for this bake?
You can use either diced cooked ham or chopped deli slices depending on your preference.
Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, Swiss cheese is a traditional alternative, though Mozzarella or mild Cheddar also work well.
Do I cook the rice in the casserole?
No, the casserole is baked separately and then served over a bed of separately cooked rice.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking or freeze leftovers in airtight containers.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can assemble the layers in the dish and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Can I use cream of mushroom instead of cream of chicken?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used as a direct substitute.
How do I ensure the breadcrumbs are crispy?
Add the breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent them from getting soggy in the sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy sauce and familiar flavors of chicken and ham make it a popular choice for children.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding peas, broccoli, or chopped asparagus to the chicken and ham layer works very well.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Using 6 chicken breasts, this recipe typically serves between 6 to 8 people.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a slightly tangier flavor or more protein.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What kind of rice is best for serving?
White rice, Jasmine rice, or Basmati rice are all excellent choices to serve with this creamy dish.
Can I use panko breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko breadcrumbs can be used for an even crunchier texture on top.
Does the chicken need to be pre-cooked?
Yes, the recipe specifies using cooked chicken breasts that have been diced.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A 3-quart casserole dish is recommended for this amount of ingredients.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the dish back in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.
Is this a low-calorie meal?
This is a rich comfort food dish; for a lighter version, you can use low-fat soup and sour cream.
Can I use raw chicken if I bake it longer?
It is not recommended as the ham and sauce might overcook; it is best to use pre-cooked chicken.
What side dishes go well with this?
A light green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots pair perfectly with the rich casserole.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too runny?
Ensure you do not add extra liquid and use the full amount of cheese to help bind the sauce.
Can I add extra seasoning?
Yes, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper to the creamy mixture for extra flavor.
Is Monterey Jack the traditional cheese for Cordon Bleu?
Traditionally Swiss cheese is used, but Monterey Jack is used here for its superior melting properties.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use two 3-quart dishes or one very large roasting pan.