Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

If you love the flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu but wish there was an easier, weeknight-friendly version, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your dream come true. Tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese come together in a rich, velvety sauce, baked to bubbly golden perfection. It’s like all the best parts of a traditional Cordon Bleu without the fuss of breading and frying chicken cutlets.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing a cozy dinner for friends, or simply craving something comforting and cheesy, this casserole hits every note. In this post, I’ll guide you through every detail, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, variations, and even storage advice.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Here’s what makes this dish stand out and why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen:

• Easy to make: Skip the breading and frying—this casserole is simple to assemble and bake.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce delivers that classic Cordon Bleu taste in every bite.
• Customizable: You can add veggies, switch cheeses, or adjust seasonings to your preference.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, creamy texture.
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble it in advance for stress-free meals on busy days.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need, organized for clarity. This recipe makes 6 servings.

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided

Sauce Ingredients

• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Topping

• ½ cup bread crumbs, plain or seasoned
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Tip: Use high-quality ham and Swiss cheese for the best flavor. Gruyère or provolone can also be great alternatives.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this casserole smoothly, you’ll want the following tools:

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to get the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter, cooking spray, or a light coating of oil. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
2. Combine the main ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese. Stir gently to mix.
3. Prepare the creamy sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Mix the chicken and sauce
   Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir carefully until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the sauce gets between all the pieces of chicken and ham for a creamy, cohesive casserole.
5. Assemble the casserole
   Pour the mixture into the greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese over the top.
6. Add the breadcrumb topping (optional)
   If using, combine the bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese. This adds a golden, crunchy finish.
7. Bake
   Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the bread crumbs brown too quickly, tent the casserole with foil.
8. Cool slightly and serve
   Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly and makes serving easier.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or asparagus tips to boost the veggie content.
• Cheese swaps: Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella all work beautifully.
• Spice adjustments: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This casserole balances creamy, cheesy richness with savory ham and tender chicken. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, while the optional breadcrumb topping contributes a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes That Work Well

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted green beans or asparagus
• A simple mixed greens salad
• Buttered noodles or rice

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g

Dietary considerations: High in protein, gluten-free if using gluten-free bread crumbs, and nut-free.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Assemble in advance: Combine all ingredients in the baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Reheating: Bake from chilled, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if needed. Leftovers can be microwaved or baked at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken or ham?
Yes, but make sure both are fully thawed and cooked before assembling the casserole.

Q2: Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute sour cream with a plant-based sour cream and Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze before baking in a covered dish for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, covering with foil initially to prevent over-browning.

Q4: Can I make this casserole spicier?
Yes, add a pinch of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or a little hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep chicken & ham	10 mins
Mix ingredients	5 mins
Assemble casserole	5 mins
Bake	25–30 mins
Rest & serve	5 mins
Total	50 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Slice into even squares and serve on warm plates.
• Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch.
• Pair with lightly roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Broccoli Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli to the mixture before baking.
2. Mushroom & Swiss – Sauté mushrooms with garlic and fold them in for a deeper flavor.
3. Gruyère Upgrade – Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a richer, nutty taste.
4. Low-Carb Option – Skip the bread crumbs or use almond flour for a crunchy topping.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken: Choose tender, juicy chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Shredded chicken absorbs the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.

Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts well and has a mild, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with ham and Dijon. Gruyère is a great alternative for an extra layer of richness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melt and flavor.
• Mix gently to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.
• Tent with foil if the topping browns too quickly to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F, covering with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncover to brown the topping.
• Reheating: Oven is best to maintain texture, though microwaving is fine for small portions.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	1 g

Notes: Gluten-free if using GF bread crumbs; nut-free; suitable for high-protein diets.

Expanded Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes the beloved flavors of a classic dish and transforms them into a fuss-free, cozy meal the whole family will love. From its tender chicken and savory ham to the rich, cheesy sauce and optional crunchy topping, it’s a comforting dish perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or any time you want a homemade meal that feels special without the effort.

Try it for dinner, enjoy the leftovers for lunch, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations—this recipe is versatile enough to become a staple in your kitchen. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a favorite for years to come!

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