Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Cozy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe for Family Joy

Comfort food takes on a delightful twist with this mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu casserole that brings together classic flavors in one easy dish.

Layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese create a rich and satisfying meal everyone will love.

The casserole combines traditional ingredients in a simplified format that makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Crispy breadcrumbs add a delectable crunch to the top, ensuring each bite is packed with texture and warmth.

Families adore this hearty recipe that transforms a classic chicken dish into a crowd-pleasing casserole.

Minimal prep work and maximum flavor make this dish a go-to option for busy home cooks seeking a delicious and comforting meal.

Dive into this irresistible recipe and experience a new take on a beloved culinary classic.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 490 kcal

Servings: 5

Everything In Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

For The Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breast: Tender and lean protein that forms the hearty foundation of the casserole, selecting fresh or high-quality frozen chicken ensures maximum flavor.
  • Ham: Adds a salty, smoky dimension that complements the chicken, choose thick-cut deli ham for robust taste and texture.
  • Swiss Cheese: Creamy and mild cheese that melts beautifully, providing a luxurious richness to the dish.
For The Sauce Components:
  • Butter: Creates a silky base for the roux, selecting unsalted butter allows better control of the dish's saltiness.
  • Flour: Thickens the sauce and provides a smooth, velvety consistency, all-purpose flour works perfectly.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a luscious sauce texture, whole milk provides the richest flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances the savory depth of the sauce, choose low-sodium for better seasoning control.
  • Dijon Mustard: Introduces a tangy, sharp note that brightens the entire dish.
  • Garlic Powder: Infuses subtle, aromatic flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
  • Onion Powder: Adds a gentle, sweet undertone to the sauce.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the overall taste profile.
For The Crispy Topping:
  • Breadcrumbs: Provides a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy casserole.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish to the crisp topping, selecting freshly grated cheese intensifies the flavor.

Tools To Build Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Baking Dish (9×13-inch): Perfect for layering and baking the casserole evenly.
  • Medium Saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy, flavorful sauce.
  • Whisk: Key for blending sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
  • Small Bowl: Ideal for mixing breadcrumb topping ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Helps stir sauce and spread ingredients.

How To Bake Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Golden And Creamy

  • Cozy Kitchen Setup

Create a warm, inviting cooking space with all your favorite tools ready. Grab a large baking dish and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure.

  • Chicken and Ham Foundation

Layer tender chicken pieces across the bottom of your dish. Sprinkle diced ham generously, creating a savory base that promises incredible flavor.

  • Cheese Blanket

Drape Swiss cheese slices over the chicken and ham, ensuring every inch is covered with creamy, melty goodness.

  • Silky Sauce Creation

Craft a luscious sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour. Slowly introduce milk and broth, stirring until smooth. Add a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick that elevates the entire dish.

  • Crispy Golden Topping

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Scatter this crunchy mixture across the top, promising a delightful textural contrast.

  • Oven Magic

Slide the casserole into a preheated oven at 375F. Let it transform for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges bubble with excitement.

  • Comfort on a Plate

Allow the casserole to rest briefly, then serve hot. Pair with a crisp green salad or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete, heartwarming meal that feels like a warm hug.

Tips For More Flavor In Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Easy Cheese Swap: Mix Swiss cheese with mild provolone or mozzarella for a creamier, milder flavor profile that still delivers delicious results.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version that maintains the crispy topping texture.
  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with turkey breast or swap ham with crispy bacon pieces to create exciting new flavor combinations without changing the core recipe structure.
  • Herb Boost: Enhance the sauce by adding fresh thyme, parsley, or rosemary to introduce subtle aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish's taste experience.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the roux and select gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this classic casserole accessible for those with wheat sensitivities while preserving its original delicious essence.

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole With A Twist

  • Savory Side Symphony: Pair this rich casserole with crisp green beans for a balanced meal that adds fresh veggie crunch.
  • Salad Sensation: Whip up a light mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy casserole's richness.
  • Potato Paradise: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the chicken cordon bleu casserole, soaking up the delicious sauce and creating a hearty plate.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to enhance the dish's creamy and savory flavors.

Store Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole And Reheat Later

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Quick Freezing Technique: Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months for future convenient meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating Performance: Warm refrigerated portions in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Use a microwave for quicker single servings, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly.
  • Smart Meal Prep Hack: Assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the cold state, adding 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time.
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Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Savory chicken cordon bleu casserole delivers classic French-inspired comfort with layers of tender chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. Rich flavors combine in a creamy sauce that promises satisfying warmth and indulgence for home cooks seeking delicious meal solutions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 ½ cups ham, diced
  • 68 slices Swiss cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 4 tbsps (60 ml) unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsps (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Position the oven rack in the middle and preheat to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Base Layer: Spread precooked chicken across the entire baking dish, then cover with a generous layer of diced ham, creating a robust foundation of savory proteins.
  3. Cheese Layering: Carefully arrange Swiss cheese slices over the ham, ensuring complete and even coverage for a creamy, melted texture.
  4. Sauce Creation: In a saucepan over medium heat, develop a velvety sauce by whisking butter and flour into a smooth roux. Gradually introduce milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  5. Flavor Enhancement: Infuse the sauce with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer until the mixture thickens, developing a complex and aromatic profile.
  6. Assembly: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, ham, and cheese layers, ensuring complete and uniform coverage that promises moisture and depth of flavor.
  7. Crispy Topping: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Distribute this mixture uniformly across the casserole’s surface to create a golden, crunchy exterior.
  8. Baking and Finishing: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden-brown and edges begin to bubble. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to let flavors meld and sauce slightly set.
  9. Serving: Plate the casserole alongside complementary sides like green beans, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Prevent Dryness: Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken to maintain moisture and prevent a tough, stringy texture in the casserole.
  • Customize Cheese Options: Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or provolone for a different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy melting quality.
  • Manage Sauce Consistency: Whisk continuously while adding liquid to the roux to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the ingredients evenly.
  • Boost Crunch Factor: Toast breadcrumbs slightly before mixing with butter and Parmesan to enhance the golden, crispy topping and add extra depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 490
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Marcus Foley

Marcus Foley

Food Critic & Kitchen Coach

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Troubleshooting; Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks; Global Flavor Exploration; Engaging Food Writing and Honest Reviews.

Education

Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), New York, NY

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in foundational techniques, flavor development, recipe creation, and kitchen efficiency, with an emphasis on real-world application and storytelling through food.

Marcus Foley, based in Atlanta, GA, is a friendly food expert who makes cooking fun and simple.

With hands-on training from the Institute of Culinary Education and years of tasting everything from street food to fine dining, he shares easy kitchen hacks, global flavor ideas, and step-by-step recipes that turn kitchen mishaps into delicious surprises.

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