Chicken Blue Ribbon is a delightful dish that combines savory layers of tender shredded chicken, rich Swiss cheese, and smoky black forest ham. This delicious ensemble is brought together with a creamy sauce and crispy breadcrumbs, creating a golden-brown topping that tempts you to dig right in. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or impressing guests, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight at any occasion.
The experience of enjoying Chicken Blue Ribbon is one of pure comfort, as each bite bursts with flavor and a satisfying crunch. With its inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll be eager to serve this meal. In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this mouthwatering dish step-by-step, tips for serving, and much more. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Chicken Blue Ribbon!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome chicken and fresh herbs.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Versatility: Serve it as a main dish or as a delightful party treat.
- Presentation: A stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
This recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper, whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the shredded chicken and ham in a bowl, then pour the sauce over and mix well.
- Layer half of the chicken mixture in the baking dish, followed by Swiss cheese slices.
- Add the remaining chicken mixture and top with Panko breadcrumbs mixed with 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in the baking dish for a rustic look.
- Accompaniments: Pair with fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- Portions: This dish is generous; it comfortably feeds 6-8 people.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Everyone will love how this meal comes together beautifully!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavors by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
- Customize with different cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for an exciting twist.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Blue Ribbon: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Crispy Topping: Use crushed potato chips instead of Panko for an extra crunch.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Oven mitts
- Ladle
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, frozen shredded chicken works well; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
2. Is Chicken Blue Ribbon healthy?
It’s a good source of protein; adjusting ingredients can make it lighter.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and just bake when ready.
4. How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add your favorite spices, or change the meats or cheeses.
5. What are alternative cooking methods?
You can also cook it in a slow cooker or air fryer for different textures.
Conclusion
Chicken Blue Ribbon is not only a taste sensation but also a beautiful dish that impresses everyone at the table. With fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to delight! So gather your ingredients and start cooking – you won’t regret it!
Chicken Blue Ribbon
Ingredients
Main 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 for the sauce
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional) adds brightness
- 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 for the topping
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for mixing with breadcrumbs
- Chopped parsley (optional) for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper, whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the shredded chicken and ham in a bowl, then pour the sauce over and mix well.
- Layer half of the chicken mixture in the baking dish, followed by Swiss cheese slices.
- Add the remaining chicken mixture and top with Panko breadcrumbs mixed with 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
