If you love the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu but crave something cozy and easy to make, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Loaded with tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a creamy, tangy sauce and topped with a buttery crunchy crust, this dish brings all the comfort and indulgence you want. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you need a heartfelt meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun with this recipe! Each element is simple yet essential, working together to build a casserole bursting with flavor, creamy texture, and a pleasing golden finish.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups): Shredded or cubed for perfect bite-sized pieces that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Diced ham (1 1/2 cups): Adds that classic savory depth and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Shredded Swiss cheese (2 cups): Melts to creamy perfection and brings traditional cordon bleu flavor.
- Cream cheese (1/4 cup, softened): Gives the sauce its silky, luscious texture.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tangy creaminess that brightens the dish.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Makes the casserole extra moist and rich.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a touch of sharpness that gently wakes up the flavors.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Offers subtle savory notes to deepen the overall taste.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the background flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing the ingredients perfectly.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (1 cup): Create a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Mix into the crackers for a golden brown finish.
- Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and mild herbal note for garnish.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light grease with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole will slide right out when it’s perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well blended. This mixture is the heart of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe, bringing all those creamy, tangy flavors together.
Step 3: Combine the Meats
Add the cooked chicken and diced ham into your sauce mixture and stir gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated nicely. This step ensures each bite is packed with that comforting combo of juicy chicken and salty ham.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy chicken and ham mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top in a nice, even layer so it melts beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix your crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter, turning them golden and crisp in the oven. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese for a textural contrast that makes the casserole even more irresistible.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a topping that has turned a pleasing golden brown. This signals your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is ready to be enjoyed.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
After removing from the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you like a hint of vibrant green.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a mild herbal brightness that cuts through the creamy richness. For extra flair, finely chopped chives or a light drizzle of a honey-mustard glaze can elevate the presentation and taste even further.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines best when paired with fresh, crisp sides. Consider steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the main dish. Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered rice also complement the casserole’s comforting flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for charming personal portions or layer it with a side of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions to deepen the flavor profile. For a fun twist, top with a fried egg or scatter toasted almonds for an unexpected crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal option.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully and can be a lifesaver for busy nights. To freeze, wrap tightly with foil and then plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months, retaining those delicious layers of creamy chicken and crunchy topping.
Reheating
For the best results, thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm in a 350°F oven uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until heated through, so the topping stays crisp and the inside gets piping hot. Microwaving is faster but might soften the crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and provide that mild nutty flavor, you can swap it for Gruyère for a richer experience or even mozzarella for extra meltiness. Just pick a cheese that melts well and complements the ham and chicken.
Is this dish suitable for freezing and meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is meal prep-friendly and freezes well. You can assemble it ahead of time and freeze before baking or freeze leftovers after cooking. Just be sure to thaw fully before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Can I use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and effort. Just shred or cube it and proceed with the recipe as instructed. It’s a great way to reduce waste and add extra flavor.
What can I serve alongside this casserole for a complete meal?
Think fresh and light to balance the richness. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or seasonal steamed greens like green beans or broccoli pairs perfectly, bringing freshness and crunch to your meal.
How can I make this dish lighter or lower in fat?
Try using low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise, and opt for a reduced-fat Swiss cheese to lighten the dish. You can also reduce the amounts slightly without sacrificing flavor and increase the portion of vegetables served on the side.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is a heartwarming twist on a beloved classic, combining cozy, creamy flavors with a satisfying crunchy topping that family and friends will adore. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions, give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese, topped with a buttery cracker crust. It’s a comforting and easy family meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
Cheese & Dairy
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Seasonings & Condiments
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the creamy sauce mixture. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add proteins to the sauce. Stir in the cooked chicken and diced ham, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the casserole. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, then top with shredded Swiss cheese distributed uniformly over the surface.
- Prepare and add the topping. In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly on top of the cheese layer for a golden crust.
- Bake the casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling hot and the cracker topping turns a golden brown.
- Rest and garnish. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy prep.
- Substitute Gruyère cheese for a richer flavor.
- Opt for low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise to make a lighter version.
- Serve alongside a fresh side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
