Love the classic elegance of Chicken Cordon Bleu but don’t have time for all the rolling and stuffing? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the answer! It takes all the savory goodness of the traditional dish—juicy chicken, smoky ham, melty Swiss cheese—and layers it into a warm, creamy, oven-baked masterpiece. With a buttery breadcrumb topping for that perfect golden crunch, this comforting casserole offers a delicious twist on a beloved favorite. Easy enough for a weeknight, yet satisfying enough for a special occasion—this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
All the Classic Flavors—No Fuss: Enjoy the rich, savory taste of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu without the time-consuming prep.
Perfect Crunch: The buttery breadcrumb topping adds the ideal crispy finish to every bite.
Family Favorite: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Great Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready—easy and convenient!
Customizable: Swap in different cheeses, use leftover rotisserie chicken, or make it low-carb with cauliflower rice—the options are endless.
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand to bring this flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked rotisserie chicken: Shredded for convenience and flavor, it’s the star of the dish.
Cooked ham: Diced for that savory punch, it complements the chicken beautifully.
Swiss cheese: Shredded for a creamy, melty texture that binds everything together.
Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top, making each bite satisfying. (Use panko for extra crunch).
Heavy cream: This rich ingredient creates a luscious sauce that elevates the casserole.
Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor and moisture to the dish.
Dijon mustard: A touch of tanginess that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic powder: For a hint of aromatic flavor that rounds out the dish.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Black pepper and salt: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and freshness when garnished.
For those looking to make adjustments, consider substituting half-and-half for a lighter version or using whole grain breadcrumbs for added nutrition. You can also sneak in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies. The exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Creating a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish ready to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking. While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Ham Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced ham, and half of the shredded Swiss cheese. Mix everything together well. This even distribution is key; it ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Once mixed, spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Each ingredient plays a role: the cream and broth create a rich base, while the mustard and spices add depth. Whisk until everything is well combined, and you have a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the cream sauce evenly over the chicken and ham layer in the baking dish. Make sure it covers the mixture completely. This will help keep the casserole moist and flavorful as it bakes. Spread it gently with a spatula if needed.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In another bowl, mix the remaining Swiss cheese with the breadcrumbs. This topping adds a delightful crunch and a cheesy finish. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The contrast of textures will make each bite irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be golden brown and the casserole bubbly. When it’s done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling time helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for Success
Use a rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor; it saves time!
Don’t skip the preheating step; it ensures even cooking.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving; it helps with slicing.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best, but any similar size will do.
Mixing bowls: Use two for combining ingredients; any size will suffice.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the cream sauce; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Great for spreading and serving the casserole.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken and ham for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, meatless version.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a zesty twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the chicken mixture for an aromatic flavor boost.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free for a safe option.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but frozen chicken works well too.
How can I make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time? You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. The creamy flavors balance nicely with something light and crisp.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese? Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to the dish.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep? Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a way to create memories and share love. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole embodies that spirit, bringing together flavors that comfort and satisfy. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy, delicious, and a true crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this casserole bring warmth and joy to your kitchen!
A delicious twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, this casserole combines shredded chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese, topped with a creamy sauce and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust salt to taste based on saltiness of ham and cheese).
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Pour the cream mixture evenly over the chicken and ham layer in the baking dish.
In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Swiss cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use whole grain breadcrumbs.
Add a layer of steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies and nutrition.
