Indulge in delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole post-holidays! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for leftovers or a new meal idea. #ChickenCordonBleu #ComfortFood #LeftoverRecipes
Welcome to this delicious recipe for an after-the-holidays Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole! Perfect for those leftover chicken breasts from your festive feasts, this casserole combines the classic flavors of ham and cheese in a creamy, comforting dish. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will be a hit with the whole family.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 slices cooked ham, diced (turkey or regular)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (9.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your baking dish is lightly greased or lined with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare Chicken:**
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/2-inch thick.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
3. **Add Ham:**
- Top the chicken breasts with diced ham slices. Use enough to cover the surface of the chicken.
4. **Assemble the Casserole:**
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. **Add Vegetables:**
- Sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables evenly on top of the chicken.
6. **Bake:**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
7. **Serve:**
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite side dish!
#### Tips:
- To ensure safety, always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
- For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of mayonnaise and Italian seasoning for an hour before assembling the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future meals.
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Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole and make the most of those holiday leftovers!