Chicken Blue Ribbon is a delightful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, savory black forest ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. With its crunchy Panko topping, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights.
Table of Contents
How to Make Chicken Blue Ribbon
Ingredients:
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips (about 9 slices)
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese (about 12 thin slices)
- 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 to room temperature
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Evenly spread 5 cups of shredded chicken into the baking dish.
- Layer 9 ounces of sliced black forest ham over the chicken.
- Place 8 ounces of Swiss cheese evenly over the ham, overlapping the slices to fit.
- Melt 6 Tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 Tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice (if using), 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg (if using), and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until well combined.
- Stir in 6 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk until a paste forms.
- Gradually add 3 cups of whole milk, a quarter cup at a time, whisking after each addition until smooth.
- Once all the milk is added, allow it to simmer for 4 minutes or until the sauce thickens, whisking occasionally.
- Pour the sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of Panko breadcrumbs and 4 Tablespoons of softened butter. Mix and then spread this evenly over the casserole dish as the final layer.
- Bake in the oven uncovered for 30-40 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the Panko topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve.
Chicken Blue Ribbon
A delightful casserole combining shredded chicken, black forest ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce, topped with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips
- 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 to room temperature
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Evenly spread shredded chicken into the baking dish.
- Layer sliced black forest ham over the chicken.
- Place Swiss cheese evenly over the ham, overlapping the slices.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Whisk to combine.
- Stir in flour and whisk until a paste forms.
- Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Allow to simmer for 4 minutes until thickened.
- Pour sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Combine Panko breadcrumbs and softened butter, then spread over the casserole as the final layer.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use rotisserie chicken. Feel free to increase the cayenne for more spice or add vegetables for additional nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
How to Serve Chicken Blue Ribbon
Chicken Blue Ribbon is best served hot and can be paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store Chicken Blue Ribbon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chicken Blue Ribbon will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking for later enjoyment. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Tips to Make Chicken Blue Ribbon
- For a richer flavor, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of plain shredded chicken.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the layers for added nutrition.
Variation
You can customize Chicken Blue Ribbon by using different types of cheese or ham, such as smoked Gouda or turkey ham. For a healthier version, try adding a layer of sautéed vegetables.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll be delighted by this Marry Me Chicken Pasta as well.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Blue Ribbon ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken and ham with a mix of your favorite vegetables and use a plant-based cheese.
3. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Chicken Blue Ribbon offers a simple yet comforting meal option that is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy its cheesy goodness and satisfying flavors with your loved ones!
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