There’s something heartwarming about the scent of chicken baking in the oven, crisping to perfection. This chicken cordon bleu casserole combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese in a cozy embrace. It’s been a treasured dish in homes for its comforting taste and effortless preparation.
Imagine your classic chicken cordon bleu, transformed into an easy casserole that feels like a hug. With just a few simple ingredients and no fussing over breading, you whip this up in no time. Plus, it’s a creamy delight that’s freezer-friendly, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying. You can even make it low carb if you swap out a few components.
I started making this comforting casserole on chilly evenings back in 2015. The first time I served it, my neighbor’s kids came running over, drawn in by the delicious smell. The key? A touch of Dijon mustard adds a zing that balances the richness beautifully. After years of recipe testing, this one remains a favorite in my kitchen and, I hope, yours too.
This easy chicken cordon bleu casserole is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu with Dijon sauce. Featuring tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, it makes an irresistible easy chicken cordon bleu bake perfect for weeknight dinners. Enjoy a cheesy chicken cordon bleu dump casserole that’s simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it.
In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of the Swiss cheese.
In a smaller bowl, blend sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smoothly combined.
Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and ham, stirring carefully until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Transfer everything into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Scatter the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese on top.
If using, combine bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this over the cheese layer.
Bake in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Choose quality ham and Swiss cheese to boost flavor. Keep an eye on the bread crumb topping to prevent over-browning; cover with foil if needed. Let it cool slightly to improve the flavors. For a twist, switch Swiss cheese with Gruyere or add veggies like sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or asparagus. You can also make the dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This chicken cordon bleu casserole is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic hug on a plate. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
Comforting Flavors: It’s a classic dish with tender chicken, ham, and creamy Swiss cheese all brought together in a cozy bake.
Quick & Effortless: No frying or fussing! Just mix and bake for a delicious dinner that’s ready in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when everyone’s racing in different directions.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready for a stress-free dinner.
Cooked Chicken: You can shred or cube your favorite rotisserie chicken for ease.
Cooked Ham: Diced ham adds that hearty flavor; go for a good-quality deli ham!
Swiss Cheese: Two cups of shredded Swiss cheese provides that melty goodness.
Cooking & Baking Tools: You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a whisk.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
Time to roll up your sleeves! Here’s how to create your warm cheesy masterpiece:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and smooth.
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and ham, gently stirring to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
If you’d like a crunchy topping, mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle that over the cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s melty, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Troubleshooting Tips
Here’s how to prevent common pitfalls for your easy chicken cordon bleu bake:
Too Saucy? If it seems a bit liquidy, don’t worry! Let it cool slightly before serving, as it will thicken up.
Overbrowning: If the breadcrumb topping is browning too quickly, tent the casserole with foil to protect it while the inside continues to cook.
Add Extra Veggies: If you’re leaning towards a more balanced meal, feel free to fold in some broccoli or spinach with the chicken and ham!
Tweaks & Customizations
Don’t hesitate to make this casserole uniquely yours! Here are some fun tweaks:
Cheese Swaps: Try Gruyere or mozzarella if you’re in the mood for something different.
Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can add a lovely aroma and visual appeal.
Low Carb Options: Substitute the bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds or omit them entirely for a low-carb chicken cordon bleu casserole.
Serving & Storage Tips
Let’s make sure you enjoy every last bite of this casserole:
Serving: Perfect alongside a crisp salad or some roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
Quick Reference Table: Ingredient Breakdown
Ingredient
Amount
Notes
Cooked Chicken
3 cups
Shredded or cubed
Cooked Ham
1 ½ cups
Diced
Swiss Cheese
2 cups
Shredded
Sour Cream
½ cup
For creaminess
Milk
¼ cup
Adds moisture
Dijon Mustard
1 tablespoon
For a subtle kick
Garlic Powder
½ teaspoon
For flavor
Onion Powder
½ teaspoon
Enhances taste
Salt & Pepper
To taste
Add as needed
Bread Crumbs
½ cup (optional)
For crunch (optional)
Melted Butter
2 tablespoons (optional)
For breadcrumb topping (optional)
Expert Says
A Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines classic flavors with convenience, making it a crowd-pleaser. The use of a béchamel sauce not only enhances creaminess but also ensures even heating and flavor distribution. This technique allows the chicken and ham to remain juicy while the cheese melts beautifully throughout the dish.
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The Adventure of Crafting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
It took several attempts to get my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole just right. I remember the first batch was a gooey mess, but with each try, I learned how to layer flavors and textures until it became a comforting dish my family can’t resist. Now, it’s the perfect blend of creamy and savory, just like I envisioned.
FAQs ( CHICKEN CORDON BLEU CASSEROLE )
What ingredients are needed for this dish?
You will need chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, cream of chicken soup, Dijon mustard, and breadcrumb topping. Don’t forget seasonings like salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. A little garlic powder can also add a nice touch!
How long does it take to cook?
This meal typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook in the oven at 350°F. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Using frozen chicken is not recommended, as it can lead to uneven cooking. It’s best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator beforehand to ensure consistent texture and flavor throughout the casserole.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What should I serve with it?
This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious flavors!
Conclusion
This chicken cordon bleu casserole comes together in about 30 minutes, filling your home with aromas that make everyone feel loved. You’ll adore how the creamy, cheesy layers combine for a warm hug in every bite!
Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or add some fresh spinach for an extra veggie boost. And remember, leftovers keep beautifullyjust reheat gently in the oven or microwave. A little trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen.
I’d love to see your versions! Did you have a dish that reminds you of home? Make sure to share this recipe with loved ones; cozy meals are best enjoyed together. Happy cooking, friends!
