Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic French dish, combining all the best flavors of traditional chicken cordon bleu into an easy, baked casserole. Instead of rolling chicken, ham, and cheese into individual portions, this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy casserole simplifies the process while maintaining the signature flavors that make it so irresistible.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, offering a comforting, rich, and satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its golden, crispy topping, juicy chicken, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: No need to pound, roll, or bread chicken—just layer the ingredients and bake!
Rich & Creamy Flavor: A delicious cheese sauce ties everything together beautifully.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and bake it when needed.
Great for Feeding a Crowd: A single casserole dish serves multiple people effortlessly.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, hosting a special gathering, or craving a hearty meal, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an excellent choice. The combination of tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted Swiss cheese, topped with crispy breadcrumbs, delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
To make this rich and creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together for a savory, cheesy, and satisfying dish.
Essential Ingredients for a Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Bake
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: 3–4 cups of cooked, shredded, or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience).
- Ham: 1 to 1½ cups of diced ham for that classic cordon bleu taste.
- Swiss Cheese: 1½ to 2 cups, shredded or sliced, to create that creamy, gooey melt.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Heavy Cream or Milk: 1 cup, to create a rich, velvety sauce.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened, to add creaminess.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon, for a slight tang that enhances the flavor.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for extra depth.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, to boost the savory flavor.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, for the topping.
- Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers: 1 cup, for the signature crispy topping.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste.
Substitutes and Variations
If you want to make adjustments, here are some great alternatives:
- Chicken Substitute: Try turkey or even a mix of chicken and turkey for a twist.
- Cheese Variations: If you don’t like Swiss, try provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for the crispy topping.
- Low-Carb/Keto Alternative: Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, low-carb topping.
Cheese Choices for a Perfect Chicken Ham and Cheese Casserole
The cheese plays a huge role in making this casserole delicious. Here are some of the best choices:
- Swiss Cheese: Classic and slightly nutty, perfect for traditional flavor.
- Gruyère: A more flavorful alternative to Swiss, offering a deep, nutty taste.
- Mozzarella: Mild and melty, great for those who prefer a less sharp flavor.
- Cheddar: Adds a rich, sharp bite for those who love bold cheese flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This easy-to-follow process ensures a creamy, cheesy, and crispy dish that the whole family will love!
1. Prepping the Chicken
If you’re using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, simply shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch:
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Let it cool slightly, then shred or chop into small pieces.
2. Layering the Ingredients
This casserole is built in layers to ensure even distribution of flavors:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray.
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add the diced ham on top of the chicken layer.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the ham.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce
This rich, cheesy sauce is what brings all the ingredients together!
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 oz of cream cheese with 1 cup of heavy cream (or milk), whisking until smooth.
- Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce evenly over the casserole layers, making sure to coat everything well.
4. Preparing the Crispy Topping
A crispy, golden topping is one of the best parts of this casserole!
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- For an extra crunch, add a little extra Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Baking to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Once it’s out of the oven, your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Making the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is all about getting the right balance of flavors, textures, and consistency. Follow these expert tips to ensure your casserole turns out moist, creamy, and crispy every time!
1. How to Keep the Casserole Moist
One of the biggest concerns with casseroles is dryness. Here’s how to prevent that:
Use juicy chicken: If cooking from scratch, bake or poach the chicken instead of frying to retain more moisture.
Don’t skimp on the sauce: The cheese sauce is key—make sure every layer is well-coated.
Cover with foil if needed: If your oven runs hot and you notice the topping browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.
2. Getting the Perfect Crispy Topping
The crispy breadcrumb topping is what makes this casserole so irresistible. To get the best crunch:
Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs—they’re extra crispy and light.
Add butter to the topping: This helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end: If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes—just watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
3. Adjusting for Dietary Needs (Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, or Lighter Options)
Want to make this dish healthier? Here are some easy modifications:
Low-Carb & Keto:
- Swap breadcrumbs for a mix of crushed pork rinds and Parmesan cheese.
- Use almond flour instead of regular flour in the sauce.
- Replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce.
Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
- Make sure your ham and Dijon mustard are gluten-free (some brands contain gluten).
Lighter Version:
- Use low-fat cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream.
- Swap out half of the cheese for a mix of Greek yogurt and Parmesan.
- Use lean turkey or chicken breast instead of traditional ham for a lower-fat version.
4. Adding Extra Flavor
Want to elevate the taste even more? Try these flavor boosters:
Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra freshness.
A dash of paprika in the cheese sauce gives a mild smoky taste.
A touch of Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor.
By following these pro tips, your casserole will turn out flavorful, creamy, and perfectly crispy every single time!
Side Dishes That Pair Well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
While Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Whether you want classic comfort food sides, light and fresh options, or a perfect wine pairing, here are some delicious accompaniments to serve with your casserole.
1. Classic Side Dishes (For a Hearty Meal)
If you want a full, comforting meal, these side dishes work perfectly:
🥔 Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the casserole. Try adding roasted garlic for an extra boost!
🥦 Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The mild bitterness of roasted or steamed greens balances the cheesy richness of the casserole.
🍞 Buttery Dinner Rolls – Soft, fluffy rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce from your plate.
🥕 Honey-Glazed Carrots – The sweetness of honey-glazed or roasted carrots adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
2. Light and Fresh Options (For a Balanced Meal)
If you’re looking for something lighter, these sides help balance out the richness of the casserole:
🥗 Crisp Garden Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch.
🥒 Cucumber and Tomato Salad – The juicy crunch of cucumbers and tomatoes refreshes the palate between bites of the casserole.
🍋 Lemon Garlic Asparagus – Roasted asparagus with a squeeze of fresh lemon adds brightness to the meal.
🌽 Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and slightly smoky grilled corn adds a delicious summer twist to the dish.
3. Best Wines to Pair with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
A great wine pairing can enhance the flavors of the casserole. Here are some excellent choices:
🍷 White Wine:
- Chardonnay – A rich, buttery Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce and cheese.
- Sauvignon Blanc – A crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the dish.
🍷 Red Wine (If You Prefer Red):
- Pinot Noir – A light, fruity red that won’t overpower the dish.
- Gamay (Beaujolais) – A mild red wine with a slightly earthy taste that pairs well with ham and cheese.
4. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Side Dishes
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, try these sides instead:
🥦 Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy and satisfying!
🥗 Kale Caesar Salad – A high-fiber, low-carb salad with a tangy dressing.
🍄 Garlic Butter Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, umami boost to your meal.
Pairing your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with the right side dishes ensures a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
Storing and Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
If you have leftovers (or want to make this casserole ahead of time), proper storage and reheating will help maintain its delicious texture and flavor. Here’s everything you need to know!
1. How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your casserole fresh, follow these storage guidelines:
🧊 In the Refrigerator:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
❄️ In the Freezer:
- If freezing the entire casserole, assemble it but do not bake it yet. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- If freezing leftovers, divide them into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
- The casserole will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
2. Best Reheating Methods for Maintaining Texture
Reheating your casserole the right way ensures that it stays creamy, cheesy, and crispy instead of becoming dry or soggy.
🔥 Oven (Best for Maintaining Crispiness)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If reheating the whole casserole, cover it with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes (remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top).
- For individual portions, place in an oven-safe dish and bake for 10–15 minutes.
💨 Air Fryer (For Quick & Crispy Results)
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place portions in the basket and heat for 5–7 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.
🔥 Stovetop (For a Small Portion)
- Heat a small amount of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a serving of the casserole and cover with a lid, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
⚡ Microwave (Fastest Method, But May Soften the Topping)
- Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until fully warmed.
- If the topping has softened, place the portion under a broiler for 1–2 minutes to crisp it up.
3. Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole freezes well if stored properly.
❄️ To Freeze Before Baking:
- Assemble the casserole, but don’t add the breadcrumb topping (add it just before baking for best results).
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
🔥 To Bake from Frozen:
- Remove from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Add the breadcrumb topping before baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until heated through.
❄️ To Freeze After Baking:
- Cool the casserole completely.
- Cut into individual portions and wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers.
- Reheat using one of the methods above!
Healthier Versions of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
If you love Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole but want a lighter, healthier version, there are several ways to reduce calories, carbs, and fat while keeping it delicious and satisfying. Here are some healthier swaps and modifications to fit various diets, including low-carb, keto, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.
1. Using Leaner Meat Options
🔹 Swap Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breast – Chicken thighs add richness, but chicken breast is leaner and lower in fat.
🔹 Use Turkey Instead of Ham – Ham adds flavor but also extra sodium. Lean turkey or turkey ham works as a healthier substitute.
🔹 Go Meatless! – For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cauliflower, mushrooms, or tofu for a high-protein alternative.
2. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Adjustments
If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily modify this casserole:
Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or a mixture of almond flour and Parmesan cheese for a crispy topping.
Use heavy cream and full-fat cheese to keep it keto-friendly while maintaining a creamy texture.
Skip the flour-based sauce and instead make a cheese-based sauce with heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan.
3. Dairy-Free and Vegan Substitutes
For those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, try these dairy-free alternatives:
🧀 Use dairy-free cheese alternatives – Brands like Daiya or Violife offer plant-based Swiss cheese.
🥛 Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream – This still provides creaminess without dairy.
🌱 Try a vegan “cheese sauce” – Blend cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, and lemon juice for a creamy dairy-free sauce.
4. Lower-Calorie and Low-Fat Options
If you’re watching your calories and fat intake, make these lightened-up swaps:
🌿 Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or heavy cream – It’s high in protein and adds creaminess without excess fat.
🧀 Use part-skim cheese – Swap full-fat Swiss cheese for part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat Swiss.
🥄 Thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour and butter – A cornstarch slurry is a lighter option for thickening.
5. Gluten-Free Alternatives
For a gluten-free Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, try these easy swaps:
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Check your ham and Dijon mustard – Some brands contain gluten, so opt for certified gluten-free versions.
Thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour for a smooth, gluten-free consistency.
6. Portion Control for a Balanced Meal
If you still want the classic version but with fewer calories, simply serve a smaller portion and pair it with a healthy, fiber-rich side dish like a salad or roasted vegetables.
With these healthier modifications, you can enjoy a lighter, diet-friendly version of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole without sacrificing flavor!
End your meal with a delightful dessert like:
- Moist & Buttery Lemon Pound Cake – The bright citrus flavors contrast the richness of the casserole.
- Best Dirt Cake Recipe – A fun and easy dessert for a family-friendly finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should Chicken Casserole Be Covered When Baking?
It depends on the recipe and desired texture. For Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, it’s usually baked uncovered to allow the topping to get crispy and golden brown. However, if you notice the topping browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove it to crisp up the top.
2. How Long Is Cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu Good for in the Fridge?
Cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, let the casserole cool completely before storing it.
3. How to Reheat Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
To keep the texture and flavor intact, reheat using one of these methods:
🔥 Oven (Best for Maintaining Crispiness):
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes (remove foil for the last 5 minutes).
💨 Air Fryer (For a Quick and Crispy Reheat):
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat individual portions for 5–7 minutes.
⚡ Microwave (Fastest, But May Soften the Topping):
- Cover with a damp paper towel.
- Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Crisp the topping under the broiler for 1–2 minutes if needed.
4. How Do You Cook Already Prepared Cordon Bleu?
If you have a pre-made, uncooked Chicken Cordon Bleu (like a frozen store-bought version), follow these steps:
🔥 Oven-Baked Method (Recommended for Even Cooking):
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes (or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
💨 Air Fryer Method (For a Crispier Crust):
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cordon bleu in the basket.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
🔥 Pan-Frying (For a Golden, Crispy Finish):
- Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a baking dish and finish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to ensure the inside is fully cooked.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu with the ease and convenience of a casserole. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress with its savory layers of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, all topped with a crispy, golden-brown crust.
The best part? This recipe is versatile and customizable—you can adjust it for low-carb, gluten-free, or lighter versions while keeping all the delicious flavors intact. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, store, and reheat, making it a fantastic go-to meal for busy nights.
So, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, creamy, and comforting dish, give Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole a try. Your family and friends will love every bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Crispy Comfort Food
Equipment
- ✔ 9×13-inch baking dish
- ✔ Mixing bowls
- ✔ Whisk
- ✔️ Saucepan
- ✔ Measuring cups & spoons
- ✔️ Spatula or spoon
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 3 –4 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1½ cups diced ham
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyère
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the Crispy Topping:
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Dish
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Layer the Casserole
- Spread shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of diced ham over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole.
- Add the Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Low-Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
Cheese Alternatives: Try mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar if you prefer different flavors.