Chicken Breasts En Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole layered with ham and Swiss cheese, topped with creamy sauce, breadcrumbs, and parsley, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon butter until fully cooked.
- In a shallow baking dish, layer the cooked chicken, then the slices of baked ham, and Swiss cheese for 6 individual servings.
- Melt 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan.
- Blend in the flour until smooth.
- Carefully add the milk, season with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Beat the egg and cream together, then add to the sauce and cook a few minutes more.
- Spread the sauce over the layered meat in the casserole.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs and parsley flakes on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey breast instead of chicken and low-fat cheese. If you're out of Swiss cheese, Gruyere or mozzarella can work well too. To enhance flavor, add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the sauce. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before layering; this prevents dryness in the final dish. You can also use leftover cooked chicken for quicker preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or mashed potatoes. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breasts En Casserole contains roughly 551 calories, with 17g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1460mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier in the day. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko can be great alternatives. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can even sprinkle some chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as directed but cook on low for about 4-6 hours. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce will meld beautifully with the other ingredients in this method.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).