why make this recipe

Chicken Blue Ribbon is a comforting and delightful dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, all baked together under a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas that make everyone feel at home.

how to make Chicken Blue Ribbon

Ingredients:

5 cups shredded chicken.
9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips (about 9 slices).
8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese (about 12 thin slices).
6 Tablespoons unsalted butter.
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard.
1 Tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional).
1 teaspoon garlic powder.
½ teaspoon salt.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional).
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour.
3 cups whole milk.
1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs.
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature.
Chopped parsley (optional).

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Evenly spread 5 cups of shredded chicken into the baking dish.
Layer 9 ounces of sliced deli-style black forest ham over the chicken.
Place 8 ounces of sliced Swiss cheese evenly over the ham, overlapping the cheese slices to fit into the casserole dish.
In a saucepan, melt 6 Tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1 Tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice (if using), 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg (if using), and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using).
Sprinkle in 6 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking over medium heat until it forms a paste.
Slowly add 3 cups of whole milk, a quarter of a cup at a time, whisking until smooth before adding more milk.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 4 minutes or until the sauce has thickened, whisking occasionally.
Pour the sauce over the cheese layer and spread it evenly to cover as much as possible.
In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of Panko breadcrumbs and 4 Tablespoons of softened unsalted butter. Spread this mixture evenly over the casserole dish.
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the Panko topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (optional) and serve.

how to serve Chicken Blue Ribbon

Chicken Blue Ribbon can be served hot from the oven as a main dish. It pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole. For a fun twist, serve it with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

how to store Chicken Blue Ribbon

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. For long-term storage, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

tips to make Chicken Blue Ribbon

For even more flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or vegetables like spinach to the chicken layer.
Make sure to whisk the sauce well to avoid lumps.
If you like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

variation

You can easily swap out the ham for turkey or even add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor. Additionally, feel free to replace Swiss cheese with cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to the dish.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just increase the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.