If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish cleverly combines tender chunks of chicken, savory ham, creamy sauce, and melty Swiss cheese over fluffy rice, baked to golden perfection. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to pull together in under an hour, making it a reliable weeknight winner that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, working in harmony to create rich flavors, pleasing textures, and an inviting appearance. Let’s break down what you’ll use to bring this delicious bake to life.
- 2 cups instant white rice: The base of your bake, providing fluffy, tasty texture that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups water: To cook the rice perfectly and keep it moist in the bake.
- 1½ cups chopped cooked chicken: Tender protein that carries the classic Cordon Bleu flavor.
- 8 oz diced ham: Adds a salty, smoky hit that pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret to creamy, comforting sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream: Brings tanginess and richness, balancing the savory notes perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts into golden pockets of nutty, gooey delight.
- ½ cup milk or water: Helps achieve the ideal creamy consistency for the baking mixture.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start your kitchen adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This ensures your bake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Setting up your pan early helps keep your workflow smooth.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Boil 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Stir in the instant rice, cover the pot, and turn off the heat immediately. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the water for that perfect fluffy texture that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together chopped cooked chicken, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded Swiss cheese, and your choice of milk or water. Add the cooked rice and mix everything gently but thoroughly to create an even, savory mixture that promises rich layers of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread your delicious mixture evenly into the prepared pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown on the edges. This step is where all the flavors meld and the dish transforms into a golden, irresistible meal.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives right before serving adds a pop of color and a subtle freshness that elevates the dish. If you want an extra cheesy touch, a little extra shredded Swiss on top after baking can be broiled for a minute or two to create a crunchy crust.
Side Dishes
Since the bake is hearty and creamy, pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad or steamed green beans works beautifully. Lightly lemon-dressed arugula or roasted asparagus also add balance and brighten up the meal without overwhelming the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets. Layer it with a few slices of crispy prosciutto or top with crispy breadcrumbs for an added texture contrast. It can even be scooped onto plates and served alongside a drizzle of Dijon mustard sauce for an added zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you quick, satisfying meals ready to go without sacrificing taste or texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Simply transfer portions or the entire pan into a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can keep well for up to 2 months, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy family dinner on a busy night.
Reheating
To reheat, bake uncovered at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture. A splash of milk before reheating helps refresh the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked rice instead of instant rice?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked rice works just as well, though it may change the moisture level slightly. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked and not too wet when you combine it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
Gruyère or mozzarella are great alternatives if you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand. Both melt nicely and offer mild, creamy flavors that complement the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, so long as you use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free certified, this dish can fit a gluten-free diet.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken and ham with cooked mushrooms or a meat substitute, and use vegetable-based cream soup. Keep the cheese and sour cream for richness.
How spicy is this dish?
This bake is mild and comforting, with no spicy ingredients. If you want a little heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe means indulging in a dish that combines tradition, comfort, and simplicity all in one. It’s a wonderful way to bring people together around the table with ease and delight. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to become one of your cherished go-to meals. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake is a comforting casserole combining tender cooked chicken, diced ham, creamy chicken soup, sour cream, and melted Swiss cheese over fluffy instant white rice. This easy 40-minute dish is perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups instant white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 8 oz diced ham
- 1 (10.5 oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1 cup shredded swiss cheese
- ½ cup milk or water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the instant rice, cover the pan, then turn off the heat. Let the rice stand for 5 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked instant rice, chopped cooked chicken, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded Swiss cheese, and milk or water. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and Swiss cheese.
- Substitute chicken broth for water when preparing rice for extra flavor.
- Add a handful of steamed broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
