CHICKEN CORDON BLEU LASAGNA

### Instructions

Making **Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna** is easier than it sounds! Follow these steps for a flavorful, cheesy, and comforting dish.

#### 1. **Prepare the Lasagna Noodles**
Start by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package directions (skip this step if using no-boil noodles). Once cooked, drain and set aside. If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, it’s a good idea to drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking.

#### 2. **Make the White Sauce**
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns slightly golden.

Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and reaches a creamy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

#### 3. **Assemble the Lasagna**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. On top of the noodles, spread a layer of shredded chicken, followed by a layer of diced ham. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Swiss cheese and mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles, white sauce, and cheese on top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the final layer for extra flavor.

#### 4. **Bake the Lasagna**
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

#### 5. **Garnish and Serve**
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help it set and make slicing easier. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

### Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna

– **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for this dish.
– **Add Extra Veggies**: If you’d like to sneak some extra vegetables into your lasagna, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even a layer of roasted bell peppers.
– **Make Ahead**: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for meal prep or when hosting guests. Just be sure to let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.
– **Freeze for Later**: If you have leftovers, you can freeze them in individual portions or as a whole. Wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.

### Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser

**Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna** is a fantastic fusion of two classic comfort foods: chicken cordon bleu and lasagna. The crispy, golden layers of ham, chicken, and cheese are complemented by the creamy white sauce, resulting in a dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly delicious. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and makes everyone want to go back for seconds.

### Serving Suggestions

While **Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna** is a meal in itself, you can serve it with a few simple sides to round out your dinner:

– **Garlic Bread**: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread or breadsticks for extra carb-loaded comfort.
– **Green Salad**: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the lasagna.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or broccoli would make for a nice, nutritious side to complement the creamy lasagna.

### Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting and delicious but want a twist on the usual lasagna, give this **Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna** a try. It combines all the best elements of the classic dish—chicken, ham, cheese, and a creamy sauce—into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish will surely become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.