CHICKEN CORDON BLEU LASAGNA

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to make a roux.
• Gradually add the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
• Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Set the béchamel sauce aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Ham

• If you’re using chicken breasts, cook and shred them into bite-sized pieces.
• Slice the ham into thin strips or small pieces, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Start with a thin layer of the béchamel sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.
• Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
• Spread a layer of shredded chicken on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of ham.
• Sprinkle Swiss cheese and a little bit of Parmesan cheese over the chicken and ham.
• Spoon a generous amount of the béchamel sauce over the cheese, and then repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used up. Finish with a final layer of noodles, sauce, and cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

• Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
• After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Once rested, slice the lasagna into squares and serve hot.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s a great shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
2. Add More Cheese: Feel free to add extra cheese to each layer for a more indulgent, cheesy lasagna. Mozzarella, Gruyère, or even cheddar can be mixed in with the Swiss cheese for a twist.
3. Make Ahead: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
4. Add Veggies: If you want to add some extra nutrition, try adding a layer of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in between the layers. These vegetables will complement the rich flavors of the chicken and ham.
5. Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice without everything falling apart.

Why This Recipe Is So Special

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is a creative and delicious twist on two beloved dishes: lasagna and Chicken Cordon Bleu. The layers of tender pasta, savory chicken, salty ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a creamy béchamel sauce, come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone asking for seconds, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a dinner party.

This dish is not only flavorful but also highly versatile. You can make it your own by adding extra ingredients or substituting the cheese and meats based on what you have available. The beauty of this recipe is that it combines all the flavors we love from Chicken Cordon Bleu in a new, fun, and delicious format.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is a showstopping dish that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy, cheesy goodness of lasagna with the rich, savory flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal for yourself or preparing a dish for a crowd, this lasagna is sure to be a hit. Its layers of tender chicken, salty ham, gooey cheese, and rich béchamel sauce will leave you satisfied and coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover a whole new way to enjoy two classic favorites!