If you’re craving comfort food that’s fast to prep and big on flavor, look no further than this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It combines tender chicken, hearty ham, creamy sauce, melty Swiss cheese, and a buttery, golden breadcrumb topping—all the best parts of the classic French-inspired dish, without any of the fuss. This homey casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even prepping ahead for a busy week. You won’t believe how quickly it disappears!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of familiar ingredients to bring this deliciously creamy dish to the table. Each item plays an important role—layering in texture, adding cheesy richness, and creating that irresistible crunchy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Chicken: Shredded or diced cooked breast soaks up the creamy sauce, forming the hearty foundation of the casserole.
- Ham: Chopped sliced ham adds a savory, smoky bite and that unmistakable “cordon bleu” flavor.
- Swiss cheese: This nutty, melty cheese ties everything together and amps up the classic profile.
- Cream of chicken soup: The base for a super creamy, flavorful sauce with minimal effort.
- Sour cream: Offers a little tang plus velvety texture that makes the sauce extra luxurious.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle, aromatic flavor that works wonders in creamy casseroles.
- Onion powder: Adds a sweet-savory boost without needing to chop onions.
- Paprika: Sprinkled in for color and just a hint of smokiness.
- Black pepper: A touch of heat to balance all the creaminess.
- Breadcrumbs: They form the golden, crispy topping everyone fights for!
- Butter: Melted into the crumbs for rich flavor and beautiful browning.
- Parmesan cheese: A salty, savory note in the topping that finishes the dish perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a fresh finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), then lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This little step ensures nothing sticks, so you get perfect, easy-to-serve squares when it’s time to eat.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Ham
Evenly spread those juicy, cooked chicken pieces in the bottom of your prepared dish. Next, scatter the chopped ham on top. The flavors from the meat will mingle as they bake, creating the classic base of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
Step 3: Add the Swiss Cheese
Time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded Swiss evenly over the ham layer. It may look like a lot, but trust me, every bite will benefit from its nutty creaminess.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and fully blended—the sauce should look creamy and lightly speckled with spices. (If you’re tempted, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for an extra zing!)
Step 5: Spread the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over your cheese layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the top. This will melt down into all the chicken and ham nooks, making everything mouthwateringly moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Mix and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan until they look like wet sand. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole. This step gives your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole its signature golden, crispy finish!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest a few minutes so the layers set. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if you’d like a burst of color.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped parsley is the easiest way to brighten this cozy casserole and give it a little restaurant-worthy flair. You could also try a sprinkle of chives or very thinly sliced green onion for extra color and mild oniony bite.
Side Dishes
This comfort classic pairs beautifully with just about any green vegetable—think steamed broccoli, crisp green beans, or a big tossed salad. Roasted asparagus or baby carrots can add both color and nutrition to your table, rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or potlucks, try baking your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant, personal touch. Or, serve it family-style right from the baking dish—it’s meant to be scooped, shared, and enjoyed together. For something extra fun, use large, crispy lettuce leaves as “boats” and spoon casserole into them for a fresh, hand-held experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? Simply cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or no-fuss leftover dinners.
Freezing
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly (or use a sturdy freezer-safe dish), and freeze for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing before baking if possible—then add the breadcrumb topping right before it goes in the oven for that fresh, crispy crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through—about 20 to 30 minutes from the fridge, a bit longer from frozen (thaw overnight first for best texture). A few extra minutes uncovered at the end will revive that glorious golden topping.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a super convenient shortcut for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Simply shred or dice the meat and proceed as directed. It adds a bit of extra flavor, too.
What’s the best way to make it gluten-free?
Swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and be sure to use a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup. With these easy swaps, the casserole comes out just as tasty and satisfying.
How far ahead can I assemble the casserole?
You can assemble Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Wait to add the breadcrumb topping until right before baking so it stays crisp.
Can I use a different cheese?
While Swiss cheese gives the classic flavor, you can swap in Gruyère, provolone, or even mozzarella for a tasty twist. A mix of cheeses works well too, as long as it melts nicely.
Is it possible to add vegetables?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli florets, diced cooked asparagus, or even a layer of spinach can be tucked in with the chicken and ham. Just be sure veggies are cooked and well-drained to keep things from getting watery.
Final Thoughts
If you love the flavors of the original but want dinner on the table with half the effort, you just can’t beat a pan of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It brings friends and family together, warms up any weeknight, and just might become your new comfort food go-to. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with this easy-to-make casserole. Layers of shredded chicken, chopped ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, create a satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces sliced ham, chopped
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread chicken in the dish, top with ham, then Swiss cheese.
- Make the Sauce: Mix soup, sour cream, spices until smooth. Spread over cheese.
- Add Topping: Combine breadcrumbs, butter, Parmesan. Sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Enhance the sauce with a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
- Casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
