Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Sizzling Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe: Fancy Made Simple

Comfort meets elegance in this mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu casserole that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Layers of savory goodness unfold with each creamy bite.

Crispy breadcrumbs create a golden crust that hints at the deliciousness waiting beneath.

You’ll fall in love with the rich combination of tender chicken, melted swiss, and smoky ham.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this casserole delivers beyond expectations.

Home cooks can easily assemble this crowd-pleasing dish in minutes.

Prepare to impress everyone at the table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

One forkful will have you coming back for seconds – guaranteed.

Why Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Works Every Time

  • Transforms classic Chicken Cordon Bleu into an easy, one-dish wonder that saves precious cooking time.
  • Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Combines kid-approved flavors of cheese, chicken, and ham with a crispy breadcrumb topping that everyone will love.
  • Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual weekend meals, offering a satisfying and hearty dining experience.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Ingredient List

Protein Base:
  • Chicken, Ham, Swiss Cheese: Classic protein combination for a hearty and flavorful casserole. Chicken should be cooked and shredded, ham diced, and Swiss cheese sliced for best texture.
Sauce Components:
  • Butter, Flour, Milk, Chicken Broth: Essential for creating a creamy and rich base sauce. Butter helps develop flavor, flour thickens, milk and broth add depth and smoothness. Use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels.
  • Dijon Mustard, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile. Dijon mustard adds tangy complexity, spices provide balanced seasoning.
Topping Elements:
  • Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese, Melted Butter: Crispy topping that adds texture and rich flavor. Breadcrumbs provide crunch, Parmesan brings nutty taste, melted butter helps golden browning. Use fresh breadcrumbs for best results.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to 375F (190C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Create The Base Layer

Spread cooked chicken across the dish in an even blanket. Scatter diced ham over the chicken. Drape Swiss cheese slices to completely cover the ham layer.

Step 3: Craft The Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in milk and chicken broth, whisking until silky smooth. Let the mixture simmer and thicken for 3-4 minutes. Stir in:
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Step 4: Drench The Layers

Pour the velvety sauce over the casserole, making sure every inch gets covered.

Step 5: Build The Crunchy Topping

Mix together:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Melted butter
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the top.

Step 6: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges bubble with excitement.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Plate alongside green beans, a crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Smart Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Customize Chicken Choice: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor and convenience, saving time and reducing kitchen prep work.
  • Swap Cheese Varieties: Experiment with gruyere or provolone instead of Swiss cheese to create unique taste profiles and accommodate different preferences.
  • Lighten Up the Sauce: Replace whole milk with low-fat milk or half-and-half to reduce calories without compromising creamy texture and rich taste.
  • Create Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the casserole safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Boost Herb Flavor: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the casserole before baking to add a bright, aromatic dimension to the classic comfort dish.

Save and Reheat Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Smoothly

  • Store leftover casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and food safety.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and ensure even heating. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the topping.
  • Reheat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness and maintain the casserole's creamy texture.

Good Pairings for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Choose a light, refreshing Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the rich, creamy casserole and complement its cheesy, savory flavors.
  • Create a zesty mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the heavy, decadent casserole and provide a crisp, bright contrast.
  • Roast garlic-herb baby potatoes or steamed green beans to add a simple, complementary vegetable element that enhances the main dish without competing with its robust taste.
  • If preferring red wine, opt for a chilled Beaujolais or light Pinot Noir that won't overpower the delicate chicken and cheese combination.

Different Takes on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Use cauliflower rice as a base instead of traditional bread layers.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken and ham with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap Swiss cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of regular milk. Select nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor profile.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole FAQ Roundup

  • What is the origin of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

The dish originates from Switzerland, traditionally featuring a breaded chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese. The casserole version is an American adaptation that simplifies the classic preparation while maintaining the same delicious flavor combination.

  • Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Swiss cheese works best due to its mild, nutty flavor that complements the ham and chicken. However, you can substitute with provolone or mild white cheddar if needed. Just ensure the cheese melts well and has a similar flavor profile.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Not in its current form. To make it gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The core flavors will remain the same.

  • How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add some vegetables like spinach or broccoli between the chicken and ham layers. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and consider using low-fat milk and cheese to reduce overall calories.

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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets elegance in this mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu casserole, blending classic French-inspired flavors with hearty American simplicity. Rich layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein Base:

  • 4 cups (960 ml) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) diced ham
  • 6 slices Swiss cheese

Sauce Components:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 ml) unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Topping:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Arrange the cooked chicken in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even base layer across the bottom.
  2. Distribute diced ham generously over the chicken layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Create a cheese foundation by laying Swiss cheese slices atop the ham, overlapping slightly to maximize coverage.
  4. Craft a creamy sauce by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour to develop a smooth roux, cooking for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
  5. Gradually incorporate milk and chicken broth into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and create a silky consistency.
  6. Simmer the sauce until it thickens, then enhance with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for depth of flavor.
  7. Gently cascade the prepared sauce over the layered chicken, ham, and cheese, making sure every element is moistened.
  8. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese to form a golden, crispy topping mixture.
  9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly across the casserole, creating a textured and flavorful crust.
  10. Transfer the casserole to a preheated 375F (190C) oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the interior becomes bubbly.
  11. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
  12. Plate and serve alongside complementary sides like steamed green beans, crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Swap protein easily by using turkey or pork instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
  • Create a gluten-free version by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and replacing regular flour with cornstarch in the sauce.
  • Reduce fat content by using low-fat Swiss cheese, milk, and adding extra herbs like thyme or parsley to boost flavor without extra calories.
  • Make ahead friendly by preparing the entire casserole and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking, which allows flavors to meld and makes meal prep simpler.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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