If you love the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but want a more relaxed, cozy dinner that’s fuss-free and irresistibly delicious, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is exactly what you need. Picture tender chunks of chicken mingling with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a luscious sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and elegance, ready to become your new favorite weeknight meal or a dish to impress family and friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients each play a star role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. From the tender chicken to the creamy sauce and cheesy topping, every element works together to bring that classic taste to life in a casserole form.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: Provides the hearty base packed with protein and moisture.
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced: Adds a smoky, savory punch reminiscent of authentic Cordon Bleu.
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided: Swiss cheese melts beautifully for that signature creamy, nutty flavor.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess to the sauce, making it rich and velvety.
- ¼ cup milk: Lightens the sauce slightly for smooth consistency without heaviness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Imparts a subtle sharpness and depth to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates all flavors in the casserole.
- ½ cup bread crumbs, plain or seasoned (optional): Creates a crispy, golden topping for delightful texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional): Helps the bread crumbs brown perfectly and adds richness.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Step 1: Prepare and Combine Proteins
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick. Then, in a large bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, diced ham, and one and a half cups of shredded Swiss cheese. This mixture creates that hearty filling packed with layers of flavor and meltiness you’ll love in every bite.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce
In a separate small bowl, whisk the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This luscious sauce brings a perfect tang and creaminess, binding the proteins and cheese together beautifully for that signature Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole taste.
Step 3: Combine and Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the rich sauce over the chicken and ham mixture and stir gently so everything is evenly coated. Then spread this cheesy, creamy goodness into your prepared baking dish in an even layer, setting the stage for a perfectly baked casserole.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Optional Breadcrumb Topping
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of Swiss cheese evenly over the casserole’s surface. For a wonderful golden crust, mix the optional bread crumbs with melted butter and scatter on top. This step adds that irresistible crunchy contrast to your creamy casserole.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden, and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool for a few minutes to settle before serving, ensuring each slice holds together and the flavors meld perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Garnishes
To add a fresh, vibrant flair, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the baked casserole. These bright green herbs not only enhance the dish visually but also add a subtle, refreshing note that cuts through the richness beautifully. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper on top right before serving can also add a lovely touch of spice.
Side Dishes
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans to balance the richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles soak up the sauce perfectly, making them comforting and satisfying companions for this dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make your meal feel extra special, serve individual portions of the casserole in small ramekins or cast iron skillets. Layering it with extra cheese on top for broiling just beforehand creates a perfect golden crust. Alternatively, serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and keep it chilled. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, the flavors have mellowed and melded even further, making every bite just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Assemble the casserole and cover it with foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge. If freezing after baking, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is once again melted and bubbly—about 20 minutes. Microwave reheating works too, especially in individual servings, but the oven method helps maintain that crisp breadcrumb topping and evenly warmed texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella are fantastic alternatives that melt well and complement the flavors wonderfully. Mixing cheeses can add even more depth and creaminess.
Is this casserole suitable for making ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it super convenient for busy weeknights or when entertaining, allowing the flavors to meld before baking.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole for added nutrition?
Definitely. Adding sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli florets, or asparagus tips mixes in extra nutrients and color, making the casserole more wholesome without sacrificing flavor.
What’s the best way to avoid overbaking the casserole?
If the breadcrumb topping starts browning too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil. This protects the top while letting the casserole heat evenly. Also, keep an eye on it after 20 minutes to prevent burning.
Can I use uncooked chicken and ham in this recipe?
This recipe works best with cooked chicken and ham to ensure even cooking and the right texture. Using raw proteins would require adjusting bake times and might make the casserole less creamy and cohesive.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is one of those magical dishes that brings nostalgic flavors into a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy richness, melty cheese, and lovely mix of chicken and ham make it an instant crowd-pleaser. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — it might just become your next go-to comfort food classic.
PrintChicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting twist on a classic dish, blending tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese in a luscious sauce baked to golden perfection. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, it transforms traditional flavors into a simple, hearty casserole that’s both delicious and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup bread crumbs, plain or seasoned
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the shredded chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of Swiss cheese until well combined.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix sauce with chicken mixture: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Prepare bread crumb topping: In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted butter (if using) and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Notes
- Use good quality ham and Swiss cheese for the best flavor.
- Do not overbake the casserole; tent with foil if the bread crumb topping browns too quickly.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- For a richer flavor, substitute Gruyere cheese for Swiss cheese.
- Add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or asparagus tips for added nutrition and texture.
- Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella can be used as alternative cheese options.
- You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.