As you approach the kitchen, an enticing aroma envelops you, hinting at the deliciousness that’s about to unfold. You can almost hear the whispers of comfort and warmth resonating from the stove. There’s something undeniably magical about Chicken Blue Ribbon—an unassuming name for a dish that effortlessly steals the show at any gathering. As you mix together tender shreds of chicken, rich layers of black forest ham, and creamy, molten Swiss cheese, a wave of anticipation courses through you. Each bite promises to be a symphony of flavors, from the savory notes of garlic and Dijon to the delicate hint of nutmeg that lingers on your palate. This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience—a journey to that cozy spot in your heart that longs for home-cooked goodness.
Picture this: gathering around the table with loved ones, the golden-brown topping glistening under the soft glow of candlelight. Your friends and family are eager to dig in, their eyes lighting up as they savor the moment. The crunchy Panko topping contrasts beautifully with the velvety cheese sauce, enveloping all the other flavors in a delightful embrace. Each forkful is a celebration—a comforting reminder that food, when made with love, holds the power to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
This Chicken Blue Ribbon casserole shines brightly on any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or a festive holiday feast. Every mouthful delivers not only satisfaction but also a shared connection, fueling laughter and stories that fill the air. With the perfect balance of savory and creamy, your taste buds will applaud this heavenly dish, eagerly asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Blue Ribbon
This Chicken Blue Ribbon casserole is a showstopper for several reasons. First, its divine combination of flavors makes it a true standout. The savory chicken paired with the rich black forest ham provides a robust foundation that sings when met with the creamy Swiss cheese. Not to mention, the buttery Panko topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire experience.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen while you focus on the company around you. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, transforming what could have been a mundane meal into something extraordinary.
When you serve this dish, it’s not just about filling bellies; it’s about igniting joy and sparking conversation. This Chicken Blue Ribbon casserole is the heart of your dinner table.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the preparation of this savory casserole, having the right tools on hand streamlines the cooking process and enhances your experience.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish: This is essential for properly layering your ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
- Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan makes whisking your creamy sauce a breeze, allowing you to achieve that thick, luxurious texture.
- Whisk and spatula: Both tools are key to achieving a smooth sauce and evenly distributing your ingredients in the dish.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for any chopping, whether it’s slicing ham or prepping herbs.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters in cooking, and these tools ensure your flavors come together harmoniously.
Before you begin, make sure to shred your chicken ahead of time (using rotisserie chicken saves even more time) and have all your ingredients prepped. This not only makes the cooking flow smoother but also allows you to focus on the delightful aromas and textures as they come together.
Ingredients for Chicken Blue Ribbon
- 5 cups shredded chicken: The heart of the dish, providing a juicy and tender texture.
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham: Adds a savory richness that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese: Offers creaminess and a subtle nuttiness, creating a gooey dream.
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce, contributing to its velvety mouthfeel.
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard: Injects a tangy zing that brightens the dish.
- 1 Tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional): Enhances flavors, giving a refreshing lift.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and aroma, creating a cozy ambiance.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for elevating all flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Introduces warmth and sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Offers a gentle heat for those who prefer a kick.
- 6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it a rich texture.
- 3 cups whole milk: Forms the creamy base of your sauce, ensuring lusciousness in every bite.
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature: Helps bind the Panko for an irresistible crunch.
- Chopped parsley (optional): An optional touch for freshness and color.
Consider these substitutions to fit your taste:
- Use provolone or gouda cheese instead of Swiss for a different depth of flavor.
- Swap out chicken for turkey to turn this into a post-Thanksgiving delight.
- For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How to Make Chicken Blue Ribbon
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your dish releases effortlessly upon serving.
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Spread 5 cups of shredded chicken evenly across the base of the baking dish, creating a tender foundation for all the layers.
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Next, layer 9 ounces of sliced black forest ham, cut into strips, evenly over the chicken. Take a moment to admire the beautiful colors as they begin to meld together.
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Place 8 ounces of sliced Swiss cheese on top of the ham, overlapping the cheese slices to ensure every bite is full of that cheesy goodness.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 Tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 1 Tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice (if using), 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg (optional), and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional). Whisk until well combined.
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Gradually sprinkle in 6 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour, continuing to whisk until you form a smooth paste.
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Slowly add 3 cups of whole milk, a quarter at a time, whisking endlessly until the mixture becomes silky smooth before adding the next amount of milk. Achieving the right consistency is key; don’t rush this step!
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Allow the sauce to simmer for about 4 minutes or until it thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Pour the luscious sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly throughout, ensuring every section receives its fair share of the creamy goodness.
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In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of Panko breadcrumbs with 4 Tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are well-coated. Scatter this delightful mix over the top of your casserole for that satisfying crunch.
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Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles enticingly and the Panko topping has developed a beautiful golden brown hue.
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Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to set, making serving a treat.
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For a final touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley (if desired) right before serving to add an inviting pop of color.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
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Make-ahead tips: You can assemble this casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate it. Take it out to come to room temperature while you preheat the oven, and then bake as directed!
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Cooking alternatives: If you’re short on time, consider using an air fryer—adjust the temperature to 350°F and check for doneness as cooking times may vary.
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Customization ideas: Let your creativity shine! Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy touch. You can even switch out the Panko topping for crushed crackers or even a layer of crispy bacon for added decadence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the resting time: Don’t rush to serve right out of the oven. Giving it a few minutes to set ensures all the layers meld together perfectly.
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Not distributing the sauce evenly: When pouring the sauce, take care to cover all areas, avoiding dry patches in your casserole.
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Using low-fat milk: Stick with whole milk for that creamy sauce that makes each bite memorable. Lower-fat varieties may result in a thinner texture.
What to Serve With Chicken Blue Ribbon
Enhance your meal with the following delicious pairings:
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Crisp green salad: The freshness and crunch of a simple salad balance the rich casserole perfectly.
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Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, a side of warm garlic bread adds warmth and comfort to your dining experience.
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Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like broccoli or carrots provide a colorful and nutritious complement.
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Mashed potatoes: Velvety potatoes are a classic comfort food that pair well, soaking up all the savory flavors of the casserole.
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Steamed asparagus: The slight bitterness of asparagus cuts through the richness of the dish, adding another layer of flavor.
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Fruit salad: Light and refreshing, a fruit salad provides a sweet, juicy contrast.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the oven—just cover with aluminum foil and heat at 350°F until warm. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through. For long-term storage, freeze the assembled casserole before baking, and it will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on brand and preparation methods.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Utilizing rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses additional flavor into the casserole.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken and ham for your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, and use a vegetable broth base instead of chicken stock.
3. How do I keep the topping crispy?
Ensure your Panko topping is well-buttered and baked until golden brown to maintain that great crunch.
4. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, whisk in a little more milk while simmering until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Can I prepare this dish without dairy?
Certainly! Use a dairy-free milk alternative and vegan cheddar for a delightful dairy-free version of this dish.
In conclusion, Chicken Blue Ribbon is more than just a casserole—it’s a warm embrace of flavors and textures, crafted to bring loved ones together around the table. As you bake and savor each bite, let it remind you that food is not just sustenance; it’s a loving gesture, a shared experience, and a piece of home. Embrace the joy this dish brings, and don’t wait another moment to let its flavors fill your kitchen and heart. You’re bound to create cherished memories around this comforting meal, one forkful at a time. Enjoy!
Print
Chicken Blue Ribbon
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting casserole filled with shredded chicken, rich black forest ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, topped with a crispy Panko breading.
Ingredients
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread shredded chicken evenly across the base of the baking dish.
- Layer black forest ham over the chicken.
- Place Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then mix in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle in flour, whisking to form a smooth paste.
- Gradually add whole milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Mix Panko breadcrumbs with softened butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown on top.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Make it ahead by assembling a day prior, refrigerate it, and bake as usual. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
