Chef Mitchell preparing Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the delightful combination of flavors in this Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake while experimenting with leftovers. Over the years, I've perfected the recipe, balancing the creaminess of the sauce with the hearty flavors of ham and chicken. It's become a family favorite, and I love sharing it with friends during gatherings. Every bite reminds me of cozy dinners spent with loved ones."

With over ten years of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine and dinner recipes. My passion lies in creating comforting, satisfying meals that bring families together. As a culinary school graduate, I focus on balancing flavors and textures to elevate classic dishes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake served on a plate

Why This Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake Recipe Works

This recipe is an epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of chicken and ham with gooey cheese. It's quick to prepare yet feels indulgent, making it ideal for family dinners. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Plus, you can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish.

The use of cream of mushroom soup creates a luscious sauce that binds the ingredients together, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. The mixture of cheeses enhances the taste profile, while the breadcrumbs provide texture. This balance of creaminess and crunch results in a dish that is satisfying and delicious every time.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, make sure to use high-quality cheese for a rich flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs and spices to enhance the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, just bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. For the cheese, feel free to use your favorite variety, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier flavor. Additionally, if you’re out of ham, cooked bacon or turkey can make great alternatives.

The Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake is done when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider adding mashed potatoes or rice as a side.

Once baked, the Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When reheating, ensure that it is heated thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can make the Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake in advance. Prepare it as directed, but do not bake it. Cover it well and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

To reheat the Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too much. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking.

Solution: To prevent this, always check the bake around the minimum time suggested and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the right temperature without drying out the other ingredients.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the top of your bake isn't crispy, it might lack sufficient breadcrumbs or oil.

Solution: Ensure you evenly distribute the breadcrumbs and drizzle enough olive oil on top before baking. You can also broil it for a few minutes at the end of baking for extra crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is rubbery or dry, it may have been overcooked.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the bake as it cooks and use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Remove it from the oven as soon as the chicken reaches the correct temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center remains undercooked, it may not have been baked long enough.

Recovery: To remedy this, cover the dish with foil and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking periodically until the chicken is fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the top of your dish is burnt while the inside is still cooking, it may have been too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To prevent this, you can cover the top with foil if it starts to brown too quickly, allowing the inside to cook thoroughly without burning the top.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your dish is too sweet, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, adding a bit of sugar or additional sour cream can help mellow the saltiness.

Bland: To fix a bland dish, add more spices or herbs, such as paprika, thyme, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

Fresh ingredients for Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake

The core ingredients of this dish include chicken, ham, and a blend of cheeses that bring richness and depth to the recipe. The cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy texture, while the breadcrumbs give it a lovely crunch. Using fresh and high-quality ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties, as it melts better and has a more robust flavor. Additionally, using homemade or organic chicken will result in a more flavorful dish. Fresh vegetables can also make a noticeable difference in the dish's freshness and taste.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: For the best flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are darker and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner. Ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature but not overcooked to retain moisture.
  • Ham: Choose a high-quality ham, preferably from the deli section, for better flavor. Look for ham that is not overly salty and has a nice balance of sweetness. You can also use leftover holiday ham for an extra touch of flavor.
  • Cheese: Using a mix of cheeses will enhance the flavor profile. Cheddar and Parmesan are great combinations, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. Ensure the cheese is fresh; block cheese will melt better than pre-shredded.
Cooking process for Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake is straightforward and ideal for home cooks of all levels. Start by preparing the ingredients, which sets the foundation for a well-balanced dish. Mixing the ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy and cheesy experience that’s hard to resist. The final touch of breadcrumbs creates a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling, making it a guaranteed hit at dinner time.

Key Technique for Perfect Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake

The key to a perfect Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake lies in balancing the cooking times and temperatures. Ensure that the chicken cooks through without drying out while achieving a golden brown crust on top. Monitoring the bake closely during the last few minutes will help achieve that ideal texture without compromising the dish's moisture.

Cheesy Ham and Chicken Bake

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup sour cream
    For creaminess
  • 1 cup milk
    Whole or low-fat
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb ham
    Diced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    For topping
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
    Peas, carrots, etc.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For topping
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    For the topping
  • 1/4 cup green onions
    Chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all the ingredients and cut the chicken and ham into bite-sized pieces.

  2. Mix the Base

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, ham, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Add Vegetables

    Fold in the frozen mixed vegetables and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture.

  4. Transfer to Baking Dish

    Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

  5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

    Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top, then add breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese.

  6. Drizzle with Olive Oil

    Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs for added flavor and crunch.

  7. Bake the Dish

    Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.

  8. Let it Rest

    Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure the dish is cooled completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful bake with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also swap the cheeses based on your preference, or even add spices to give it a unique twist. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.