When I made this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe, I felt like I’d cracked the code for the ultimate comfort food. The creamy, cheesy layers of chicken, salty ham, and buttery breaded topping come together so perfectly, you’d think it took hours to prepare—but it doesn’t!
It’s simple, satisfying, and so versatile that it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and entertaining friends. My family couldn’t get enough, and I won’t lie—I may have helped myself to a second (okay, third!) serving.
Essential Ingredients
This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients that deliver big on flavor.
- 5 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender, juicy, and super convenient.
- 2 cups diced ham: Adds a savory, salty kick that pairs perfectly.
For the Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives the sauce its rich, creamy base.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the velvety sauce.
- 2 cups milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and luscious.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth for balance.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle, savory touch.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Pulls all the flavors together.
- 1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese (or 5 ounces): Melts perfectly for a silky texture.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, cheesy edge.
For the Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Crispy and light for a crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps toast the breadcrumbs to golden perfection.
Note: This recipe serves about 6 people and pairs perfectly with various side dishes.
Simple Swaps and Flavor Upgrades
Mix things up with these easy variations to make the dish your own!
- Switch Up the Cheese: Use cheddar, Havarti, or mozzarella for a milder bite.
- Try Different Toppings: Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs for a twist.
- Change the Protein: Replace rotisserie chicken with turkey or deli chicken slices.
- Make It Veggie-Friendly: Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
Cooking Time Breakdown
This dish is perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Must-Have Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need for smooth preparation.
- Casserole dish (9×13 inches): Perfect for assembling and baking.
- Saucepan: To whip up the creamy cheese sauce.
- Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining the breadcrumb topping or prepping ingredients.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
This step-by-step guide makes putting together this casserole a breeze!
Step 1: Prepare the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your casserole dish with cooking spray. This simple step keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Build the Base Layers
Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish, followed by the diced ham. Layering like this ensures every bite gets that satisfying combo of chicken and ham.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
This luxurious sauce ties everything together! Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt, then remove the pan from heat. Finally, fold in the Swiss and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
Step 4: Pour on the Flavor
Carefully pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and ham, making sure to distribute it evenly. This ensures that the flavors soak into every layer.
Step 5: Create a Crispy Topping
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the topping generously over the casserole for that irresistible crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes scooping easier.
My Tips for a Perfect Casserole
After making this dish a few times, here’s what I’ve learned to make it even better!
- Freshly Shred Your Cheese: Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which can contain anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
- Go Extra Creamy: If you love a saucier finish, double the cheese sauce! It makes the casserole even more decadent.
- Layer Generously: Don’t skimp on the chicken or ham. Layering generously ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Serving Ideas for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Complete your meal with these delicious pairing ideas!
- Hearty Classics: Serve over mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles for a true comfort-food experience.
- Bright and Fresh: Pair with a green side like steamed asparagus, roasted green beans, or a crisp garden salad to balance the creaminess.
- Perfect Finishes: Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and color.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 458
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fat: 26g
Make Ahead and Storage
This dish is just as tasty the next day and is perfect for meal prep!
Make Ahead
Prepare the casserole through step 4 (adding the cheese sauce) but leave off the topping. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.
Refrigeration
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing
Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is comfort food at its finest!
- Quick and Easy: No rolling or frying required! This recipe simplifies the classic.
- Unbelievably Tasty: Creamy, cheesy, and crunchy all in one dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Casual weeknight dinner or holiday crowd-pleaser, it fits the bill.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheeses, proteins, or toppings without missing a beat.
- Minimal Cleanup: One dish for assembly and a saucepan for the sauce. That’s it!
Pull out your casserole dish and give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe a try! It’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 5 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups diced ham
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt or to taste
- 1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese about 5 oz
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your casserole dish with cooking spray. This simple step keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish, followed by the diced ham. Layering like this ensures every bite gets that satisfying combo of chicken and ham.
- This luxurious sauce ties everything together! Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt, then remove the pan from heat. Finally, fold in the Swiss and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
- Carefully pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and ham, making sure to distribute it evenly. This ensures that the flavors soak into every layer.
- Mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the topping generously over the casserole for that irresistible crunch.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes scooping easier.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Try Havarti, cheddar, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Topping Variations: Substitute panko with crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Protein Alternatives: Turkey or deli chicken slices work great too.
- Vegetarian Twist: Add steamed broccoli or spinach and omit the ham/chicken for a veggie-friendly option.
