Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers all the classic flavors without the fuss. Tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese come together in a creamy sauce topped with buttery breadcrumbs. For another quick meal idea, try this Easy White Sweet Potato and Honey Garlic Sausages Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese sauce beneath a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping for a delicious twist on the classic dish.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is about 25% faster than preparing a traditional rolled and breaded version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

For even cooking, ensure all chicken pieces are roughly the same size. Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the spices adhere.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink.

Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcooking, as it will continue to cook in the casserole.

Step 3 — Layer the Casserole Base

Spread 2 cups of cooked egg noodles or rice in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with the cooked chicken.

Using a thin layer of starch at the bottom helps absorb excess moisture and prevents a soggy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Step 4 — Add Ham and Swiss Cheese

Layer 8 ounces of diced ham over the chicken, followed by 1½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese.

For best flavor, use high-quality deli ham and freshly shredded Swiss cheese, which melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Step 5 — Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of milk until smooth.

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with a pinch of thyme or paprika if desired.

Step 6 — Assemble the Casserole

Pour the sauce evenly over the layers in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread it, ensuring it reaches all corners.

Do not stir the layers—allowing the sauce to seep down naturally keeps the texture intact and ensures even flavor distribution.

Step 7 — Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

The butter helps the topping brown and crisp. For extra crunch, mix in 2 tablespoons of crushed butter crackers with the panko.

Step 8 — Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is crisp. If the topping browns too quickly, tent with foil.

Step 9 — Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes slicing easier.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and a bright finish. Serve warm alongside a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Calories	410
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	23g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Breast — Leaner protein with similar texture and mild flavor that pairs well with ham and cheese.
• Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb base that absorbs the creamy sauce while adding vegetable servings.
• Nutritional Yeast — Dairy-free option providing cheesy flavor with B-vitamin boost.
• Almond Flour Coating — Gluten-free alternative creating a crispy topping without traditional breadcrumbs.
• Low-Sodium Ham — Reduces salt content while maintaining the classic Cordon Bleu flavor profile.
• Greek Yogurt Sauce — Lighter, protein-rich substitute for heavy cream or sour cream bases.
• Mushroom Layers — Plant-based option adding umami depth and reducing meat quantity.
• Sweet Potato Crust — Nutrient-dense, gluten-free topping offering natural sweetness contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans almondine for a classic French-inspired meal.
• Serve over egg noodles or with garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Accompany with a simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Perfect for holiday dinners or potlucks where comfort food is the star.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded Swiss cheese before serving.
• For individual portions, bake in ramekins for an elegant plating presentation.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for special occasions, making it a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw chicken directly in the casserole. Fix: Pre-cook the chicken to ensure it’s fully safe to eat and doesn’t release excess water.
• Mistake: Overloading the dish with salty ham and cheese. Fix: Balance the saltiness by using low-sodium ham and adjusting added salt in your sauce.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of making a proper sauce base. Fix: Create a creamy béchamel or cheese sauce to bind ingredients and prevent a dry result.
• Mistake: Using breadcrumbs that burn before the casserole is cooked. Fix: Add the breadcrumb topping during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a perfect golden crust.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the chicken and sauce layers individually. Fix: Season each component as you build the casserole for a more flavorful and cohesive dish.
• Mistake: Cutting the chicken into uneven pieces. Fix: Cube the chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the bake.
• Mistake: Using cheese that doesn’t melt well for the sauce. Fix: Opt for good melting cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Mistake: Assembling the casserole too far in advance. Fix: Assemble just before baking to prevent the topping from getting soggy from the sauce.
• Mistake: Overbaking the casserole until the cheese separates. Fix: Bake just until bubbly and golden to maintain a silky, emulsified cheese sauce.
• Mistake: Not letting the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to set for 5-10 minutes so the layers firm up for cleaner slices.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring food safety.

Always allow your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to cool to room temperature before storing to maintain quality and safety.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole delivers all the classic flavors in an easy, comforting bake. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments! For more cozy meals, explore our Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup – Creamy Comfort in a Bowl. Don’t forget to subscribe for more family-friendly recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you are starting with a cold casserole from the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of ham in this casserole?

If you prefer not to use ham, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cooked turkey, Canadian bacon, or even crispy cooked bacon. These alternatives will still give you a delicious, savory flavor that complements the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole profile.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven or toaster oven to keep the topping crispy, as microwaving can make it soggy.