Chicken-Cordon-Bleu Lasagna

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna Recipe

Serves: 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1½ cups diced ham
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the White Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux) and has a light golden color.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of white sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
3. Lay 3 cooked lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce.
4. Add a layer of shredded chicken and diced ham, distributing evenly.
5. Sprinkle a layer of shredded Swiss and mozzarella cheeses over the chicken and ham.
6. Pour about ¾ cup of white sauce over the cheese layer, spreading evenly.
7. Repeat the layering process (noodles, chicken, ham, cheeses, sauce) two more times.
8. Top the final layer of noodles with the remaining white sauce and a generous amount of shredded cheese.

Step 3: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with this creamy dish.

Tips and Variations:

1. Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred chicken breasts.
2. Ham: Swap out diced ham for prosciutto or Canadian bacon for a unique flavor twist.
3. Cheese: Substitute Gruyère for Swiss cheese for a more decadent, nutty taste.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute gluten-free flour for the roux.
5. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken and ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.

Storage and Reheating:

• To Store: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: Wrap the lasagna in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna combines the classic flavors of the beloved dish—creamy cheese, savory ham, and tender chicken—layered into a comforting lasagna. It’s a show-stopping meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Enjoy!