Decadent Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna

Decadent Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna : A Delicious Way to Use Leftover Ham"

Introduction:

Indulge in this rich and creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna, the perfect comfort food that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with layers of lasagna. This dish is not shy when it comes to its indulgent ingredients, featuring buttery white sauce, Swiss cheese, and hearty portions of ham and chicken. If you’ve been looking for a creative way to use leftover ham, this recipe is a must-try! With a luxurious texture and flavors that blend seamlessly, it’s a dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Creamy: The smooth, cheesy white sauce perfectly coats the layers of lasagna, ham, and chicken.
• Perfect Use of Leftovers: Got extra ham from a holiday feast? This recipe transforms leftovers into an indulgent meal.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Combining the deliciousness of Chicken Cordon Bleu with classic lasagna creates the ultimate comfort dish.
• Great for Special Occasions: This is a fantastic dish for family dinners, celebrations, or when you just want to treat yourself to something indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 8-ounce package of lasagna noodles
• 1.5 cups of butter
• 8-ounce tub of softened cream cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of pepper powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 3/4 cups of diced Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup of warm milk
• 8 ounces of diced cold ham
• 2 1/2 cups of cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt 1.5 cups of butter over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until it starts to melt, about 5 minutes.
• Add salt, black pepper, and warm milk, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Slowly mix in 1 1/2 cups of diced Swiss cheese, continuing to whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Spread 3/4 cup of cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking dish.
• Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
• Spread half of the cooked chicken and ham evenly over the noodles. Top with 1 cup of cheese sauce.
• Repeat the layering process with the remaining lasagna noodles, chicken, ham, and cheese sauce.
• Finish the lasagna with a final layer of noodles, then top with the remaining Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning.

4. Bake:

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
• Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna:

• Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is ideal for using up leftover holiday ham. It gives the dish a savory, smoky flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: The creaminess of this lasagna comes from the rich combination of Swiss cheese and cream cheese. Feel free to add extra cheese if you're a cheese lover!
• Let it Rest: After baking, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes. This will allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Substitute for Healthier Ingredients: For a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Leftovers:

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is a fantastic way to make the most of leftover ham or chicken from large family gatherings or holiday dinners. The combination of flavors is reminiscent of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, with the added comfort of lasagna layers. It’s a creative twist on a traditional recipe that your family will love.

Conclusion:

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes: lasagna and Chicken Cordon Bleu. The rich, cheesy sauce, combined with tender chicken, savory ham, and layers of pasta, makes this a dish worth indulging in. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply want to treat yourself to a hearty, comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Turkey is a great alternative, especially if you have leftovers from a holiday meal.

Q2: How do I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q3: Can I freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking or after. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely first.

Q4: Can I use different cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the Swiss cheese with Mozzarella, Gruyère, or even Provolone for a different flavor.

Additional Tips:

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna the night before and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
• Serve with Vegetables: Pair this rich lasagna with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the flavors.