Are you craving a comforting dish that’s both delicious and a healthier option for your family dinner? Look no further! Our Lightened Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese into a creamy, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of only an hour, you’ll have a hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover how easy it is to whip up this delightful casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese. Mix well to ensure that the meats and cheese are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the low-fat milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be your creamy sauce that ties the casserole together.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture. Pour the milk mixture over the top and gently stir until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help the casserole cook uniformly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This step helps to keep the casserole moist while it cooks.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. This will give your casserole a nice, crispy texture on top.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow it to set slightly and make serving easier.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your Lightened Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can shred the chicken and dice the ham a day in advance. This way, you can simply mix everything together when you’re ready to cook.
- Pasta Choice: While whole wheat pasta is a healthier option, feel free to use your favorite pasta type. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Cheese Variations: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, consider using mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach to the mixture before baking.
- Crispy Topping: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle some whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the casserole before the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
