Bring all the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into one easy, comforting casserole! This dish layers tender chicken breasts with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all baked together with a creamy sauce that keeps everything rich and flavorful. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the elegance of a traditional French-inspired meal without the fuss of breading and frying. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this casserole delivers a warm, cheesy, and satisfying experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Classic flavors made easy: All the best parts of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a simple bake.
Creamy and cheesy: A luscious sauce ties together tender chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese.
Minimal prep: No breading or frying—just layer, bake, and enjoy.
Family-friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
Versatile: Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
A baked casserole that’s as comforting and delicious as classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken is the star of this dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken from a previous meal.
Cooked ham: Diced ham adds a savory depth. Feel free to use leftover ham or even turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
Swiss cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving the casserole its creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, cheddar is a great substitute.
Breadcrumbs: They create a delightful crunchy topping. Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs based on your taste preference.
Milk: This adds moisture and richness. You can opt for whole milk or a lower-fat version, depending on your dietary needs.
Mayonnaise: It brings creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon adds a zesty kick. If you’re out, yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
Garlic powder: This enhances the flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. Fresh minced garlic can also be used if you prefer.
Black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, but don’t skip them—they elevate the dish.
Paprika: This adds a hint of smokiness and color. Smoked paprika can give an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh parsley: Optional for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Creating this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Ham
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors start to meld.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika until smooth. This creamy sauce is what ties the casserole together, adding richness and flavor.
Step 4: Mix and Coat
Pour the milk mixture over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. You want every bite to be packed with flavor, so take your time here.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring that it’s nice and level. This helps it cook evenly, so you get that perfect golden top.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Now, it’s time to make it look irresistible! Top the casserole with the remaining Swiss cheese, then sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create a delightful crunch when baked.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips for Success
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option—no cooking required!
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
For added flavor, sauté some onions or mushrooms to mix in with the chicken and ham.
Don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any similar-sized oven-safe dish will work.
Mixing bowls: Use two bowls—one for the chicken and ham, and another for the sauce. Any size will do!
Whisk: A simple whisk is perfect for mixing the sauce, but a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: A rubber spatula helps in mixing and transferring the casserole smoothly.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken and ham for sautéed mushrooms and spinach. This adds a hearty texture while keeping it meat-free.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious meal.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost that complements the dish beautifully.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella and provolone, for a gooey, cheesy delight.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
FAQs about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese? If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, cheddar is a fantastic alternative. You could also try gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its own unique twist to the casserole.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Is this casserole gluten-free? You can easily make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free to ensure a safe meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole embodies that spirit perfectly. With its comforting blend of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying the company of your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into this recipe, and savor the delicious moments it creates!
A simple and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that combines shredded chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese, topped with breadcrumbs for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Mix well to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika until smooth.
Pour the milk mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top the casserole with the remaining Swiss cheese and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream to the milk mixture.
You can also substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar for a different flavor profile.
