This Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic dish, marrying tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for those watching their carbohydrate intake, offering all the deliciousness without the guilt. The dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of juicy chicken breast, smoky ham, and melted Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that rivals traditional chicken cordon bleu without the added carbs. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes clean-up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole fits seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle while still being a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. It’s comfort food that you can feel good about!
Tips and Tricks
- Pre-cook chicken: To save time, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breast. This cuts down on cooking time and ensures tender meat.
- Flavor boost: Add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cream sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it creamy: Incorporate cream cheese into the sauce for added creaminess and to help thicken the casserole.
- Cheese choices: Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
- Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added to the top can elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
This casserole is great for meal prepping! You can prepare it a day in advance by assembling all the ingredients in the baking dish, covering it tightly, and storing it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable additions: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
- Different meats: Swap out the ham for turkey or crispy bacon for a different flavor.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of paprika to the sauce for a hint of heat.
How to Serve
Serve this casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a light salad of mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For a more indulgent experience, consider adding a side of garlic bread made with low-carb bread.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a light gin and tonic with lemon would be refreshing. As for side dishes, a creamy cauliflower mash or roasted Brussels sprouts would make excellent companions, while a low-carb cheesecake could serve as a delightful dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze portions, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or any similar size)
- Mixing bowl for the sauce
- Whisk for mixing ingredients
- Optional: Meat thermometer for checking chicken doneness
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and the cream with coconut cream or almond milk. For a gluten-free version, ensure that your cream and any sauces used are gluten-free. Those with nut allergies should avoid almond milk and opt for soy or oat milk instead.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the casserole for a seasonal twist. In the spring, fresh asparagus or peas can add a bright, fresh flavor. During summer, zucchini or bell peppers can be great additions.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can work well and will add extra flavor and moisture.
- How long does this dish take to cook? The total cooking time is about 30-40 minutes, depending on whether the chicken is pre-cooked.
- Can I substitute the ham? Absolutely! Turkey or even smoked sausage can be excellent alternatives.
How To Make low carb chicken cordon bleu casserole recipe
Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic dish, marrying tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Layer the shredded chicken at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the diced ham evenly over the chicken layer.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and ham, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 383Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 125mgSodium 422mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 27g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb chicken cordon bleu casserole is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a breeze to prepare. It perfectly combines convenience and flavor, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!