Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. The delicate combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese wrapped in a crispy coating has made it a timeless favorite. But what if you could capture all that gourmet flavor in a hassle-free, make-ahead, family-sized dish? That’s where the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole comes in—a creamy, cheesy, oven-baked dream that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, holidays, and everything in between.
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What Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a deconstructed version of the French-inspired dish “Cordon Bleu,” traditionally made with rolled chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese. This casserole takes all those iconic flavors—juicy chicken, salty ham, nutty Swiss cheese—and bakes them together in a creamy, buttery sauce with a golden topping.
✅ Bonus: No rolling or deep frying required—just mix, layer, bake, and enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Quick prep: No pounding, stuffing, or rolling.
- One-pan meal: Ideal for busy families or meal preppers.
- Customizable: Use leftover chicken, swap cheeses, or make it low-carb.
- Freezer-friendly: Great for make-ahead and batch cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why)
Here’s a breakdown of every ingredient and what it brings to the dish:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | Base protein; rotisserie or baked chicken works best. |
| Cooked ham | Adds savory, smoky flavor. Diced deli ham or leftover glazed ham both work. |
| Swiss cheese | Classic, nutty flavor that melts beautifully. |
| Cream cheese | Adds richness and helps bind the sauce. |
| Sour cream or Greek yogurt | Tangy contrast to the richness—balances the flavor. |
| Dijon mustard | Essential for that Cordon Bleu zing. |
| Garlic powder & onion powder | Flavor enhancers. |
| Paprika | Optional, but adds a warm color and depth. |
| Panko breadcrumbs | Crunchy topping for textural contrast. |
| Butter | Richness and helps toast the breadcrumbs. |
Optional Add-ins
- Steamed broccoli or cauliflower – for added nutrition.
- Parmesan cheese – enhances umami and adds a sharp finish.
- Nutmeg – a classic French touch in creamy sauces.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet (if sautéing fresh chicken)
- Whisk (for cream sauce)
- Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Ham
- Use shredded or diced cooked chicken.
- Dice ham into ½-inch pieces. Avoid thinly sliced deli ham unless folded or layered.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
- Bottom layer: Spread half of the cream mixture into the greased casserole dish.
- Add chicken: Spread the chicken evenly over the sauce.
- Add ham: Sprinkle diced ham over the chicken.
- Add cheese: Layer Swiss cheese slices or shredded cheese over the top.
- Top layer: Spread remaining cream mixture on top.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional).
- Sprinkle over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a crispier topping.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pairs beautifully with a green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and enhance flavor.
- Add nutmeg for a subtle French flair in the cream sauce.
- Toast breadcrumbs separately if you want an ultra-crispy topping.
- Use smoked ham or black forest ham for deeper flavor.
- Try Gruyère cheese for a more authentic European twist.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
Make-Ahead
Assemble the entire casserole (excluding topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add topping right before baking.
Freezer
- Wrap uncooked casserole tightly in plastic wrap + foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Bake from frozen at 350°F for 60–75 minutes, covered for the first half.
Variations and Substitutions
| Variation | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Low-carb/Keto | Skip the breadcrumbs, add more cheese topping. |
| Gluten-free | Use GF breadcrumbs or crushed GF crackers. |
| Broccoli version | Layer steamed broccoli between chicken and ham. |
| Spicy version | Add cayenne to the cream sauce or use pepper jack cheese. |
| Vegetarian | Sub tofu or roasted cauliflower for chicken, use plant-based ham. |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on 8 servings:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Can I use shredded cheese instead of slices?
Yes. Shredded Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella all work great.
❓ Can I use raw chicken?
It’s not recommended. Pre-cooked chicken ensures safe cooking and better layering.
❓ How do I avoid soggy breadcrumbs?
Use panko, toast with butter before sprinkling, and broil the top for 1–2 minutes at the end.
❓ What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can use a mixture of béchamel (butter + flour + milk) with cheese for a lighter sauce.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
Pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with:
- Garlic green beans
- Caesar salad
- Roasted baby potatoes
- Buttered peas and carrots
- Dinner rolls or garlic knots
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery ingredients: Drain any excess moisture from chicken or ham.
- Skipping seasoning: Even pre-cooked meat needs flavor from the sauce.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye in the last 5 minutes; overbaking can dry out the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Deserves #1
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines classic flavor with modern simplicity, wrapped in a professional-quality presentation. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a solution for busy families, a crowd-pleaser for events, and an indulgent yet balanced meal option that aligns perfectly with today’s culinary trends.
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