Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that tantalizes taste buds with its savory combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. When transformed into a casserole, this beloved recipe becomes a weeknight game-changer—easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Picture a rich, creamy layer of flavors baked to bubbly perfection. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for comfort food.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
So, why should you whip up this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? For starters, it’s a fantastic time-saver. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour in the oven, you can have a delicious meal that’ll impress anyone at your table. It’s a budget-friendly option too, combining affordable cooked chicken and ham with pantry staples that most people already have on hand.
This casserole not only brings everyone together with its hearty flavors, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to picky eaters of all ages. Kids love the cheesy goodness, and adults will appreciate the delicious twist on a classic dish. Now, as one happy cook put it:
"This casserole has become a family favorite! It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are amazing. We make it at least once a month!"
How to make Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
The cooking process explained
Creating this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is almost as delightful as eating it! Let’s break down what you’ll need to do. The entire process is simple: mix, layer, and bake. In less than an hour, you’ll be throwing forks into a creamy, cheesy dish that’ll leave everyone wanting seconds.
What you’ll need
Key ingredients
Before diving into the cooking, let’s gather the essentials for this recipe:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup plain or seasoned bread crumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
Substitution notes
Feel free to mix things up! For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, just substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free options or skip them entirely for a lighter version.
Directions to follow
Cooking method
Here’s how to create this delightful casserole step-by-step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of Swiss cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended. This creates a creamy layer that ties everything together.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and ham, mixing gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and top it with the remaining Swiss cheese.
- If you’re using bread crumbs, mix them with the melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and golden on top.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
How to plate and pair
Serving this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be just as fun as making it. Consider pairing it with a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. To make it more festive, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of buttery noodles. For a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions on top adds color and flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
Storage safety
After enjoying the casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. If you wish to save it for later, you can freeze portions. Just be sure to double-wrap them for maximum freshness. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
Pro chef tips
For the best results, be sure to taste your creamy mixture before pouring it over the chicken and ham—this way, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère or cheddar can add a delicious twist to the flavor profile. And for an extra creamy texture, pour in a bit more milk or sour cream.
Creative twists
Different ways to try it
Feel free to get adventurous with your casserole! You can incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Craving a little spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes will give it a delightful kick, while a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top adds both flavor and crunch to this comforting dish.
Common questions
Your questions answered
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble everything the night before, cover it, and bake it in the morning. Just increase the cooking time slightly if baking from cold.
Q: What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
A: Feel free to swap it out for other melty cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for different flavor profiles.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just another recipe in your collection—it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Enjoy the comfort it brings every time you serve it!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1.5 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
- 0.5 cup sour cream Can be substituted with Greek yogurt
- 0.25 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.5 cup plain or seasoned bread crumbs (optional) Use gluten-free options if needed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional) For mixing with bread crumbs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of Swiss cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and ham, mixing gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and top it with the remaining Swiss cheese.
- If using bread crumbs, mix them with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and golden on top.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.