Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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Imagine the rich, comforting flavors of a classic Chicken Cordon Bleu transformed into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole. This dish takes everything you love about the traditional French-inspired recipe—tender chicken, smoky ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping—and combines it in an easy-to-make, one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this casserole delivers a decadent experience without the hassle of rolling and breading each piece individually.

With a velvety cheese sauce coating each bite and a golden, crunchy topping that adds the perfect contrast, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is guaranteed to be a new household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Effortless Comfort Food – Skip the complicated steps of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu and enjoy the same great flavors in an easy-to-assemble casserole.
• Perfectly Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, homemade cheese sauce brings everything together, ensuring every bite is indulgent.
• Crispy, Buttery Topping – The golden breadcrumb crust adds a satisfying crunch, just like the classic dish.
• Great for Meal Prep – This casserole reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – The combination of chicken, ham, and cheese is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole as smooth and stress-free as possible, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking Dish (9×13-inch) – A large casserole dish ensures even baking and enough room for all the layers.
• Saucepan – Needed for making the creamy cheese sauce that brings everything together.
• Whisk – Helps create a smooth and lump-free cheese sauce.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients like the breadcrumb topping and assembling the casserole.
• Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping the chicken and ham into bite-sized pieces.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accuracy when adding seasonings, liquids, and cheese.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – Useful for stirring and spreading ingredients evenly.

Having these tools ready will make the cooking process seamless and ensure a well-executed casserole.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken – Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly, saving you time and effort.
• Choose High-Quality Ham & Cheese – Opt for smoked ham and real Swiss cheese for the best flavor.
• Make the Sauce Smooth – When making the cheese sauce, whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together.
• Prep in Advance – You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.

These simple yet effective tips will help you create a creamy, crispy, and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with minimal effort.

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Ingredients for This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

To make this rich and comforting casserole, you’ll need a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 ½ cups ham, diced
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for extra creaminess)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for richness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a tangy kick)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Crispy Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

With these ingredients, you’ll have a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures, making every bite absolutely irresistible!

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Ham

Dice or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the ham into small cubes. Spread both evenly in the greased baking dish.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of Swiss cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and ham in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Swiss cheese on top.

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Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika.
2. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole for a crunchy golden crust.

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Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

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Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Notes

• Chicken Options – Rotisserie chicken works great, but you can also use baked, grilled, or poached chicken.
• Cheese Substitutions – If you don’t have Swiss cheese, try using Gruyère, provolone, or even sharp white cheddar.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
• Make It Extra Creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for an even richer texture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour for the roux and swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Skipping the Roux Step

The roux (butter and flour mixture) is essential for thickening the sauce. If you skip or rush this step, your sauce may turn out thin and runny.

2. Not Whisking the Sauce Enough

For a smooth and creamy sauce, whisk constantly while adding the milk to prevent clumps from forming.

3. Overbaking the Casserole

Baking too long can dry out the chicken and make the cheese sauce separate. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the top is golden and bubbly.

4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For best results, shred your own cheese.

5. Skipping the Resting Time

Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken and ensures even distribution of flavors.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll end up with a perfectly creamy, crispy, and flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole every time!

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What to Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

This rich and creamy casserole pairs well with a variety of sides that balance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

The crisp, fresh taste of green beans sautéed in garlic butter adds a perfect contrast to the cheesy casserole.

2. Roasted Asparagus

A simple side of roasted asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice brings a refreshing bite to the meal.

3. Caesar Salad

A light Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy dressing helps cut through the richness.

4. Mashed Potatoes

For an extra comforting meal, serve the casserole with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.

5. Steamed Broccoli

A classic, healthy side that complements the dish without overpowering it. Try adding a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

6. Crusty French Bread

A warm, crispy baguette is perfect for scooping up the creamy cheese sauce.

7. Rice Pilaf

A light, herbed rice pilaf makes a great side that won’t compete with the flavors of the casserole.

8. Glazed Carrots

Sweet, buttery glazed carrots add a pop of color and a mild sweetness that balances the savory ham and cheese.

Pairing the casserole with any of these sides will create a well-rounded, satisfying meal!

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• This casserole freezes well! Assemble it without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but note that the topping may lose some crunch.

Proper storage and reheating will keep your casserole just as delicious as when it was first baked!

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Estimated for 6 servings

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~25g
• Saturated Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sodium: ~850mg

These values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and substitutions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives it that classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor, you can use Gruyère, provolone, sharp cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses.

3. How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour for the roux and swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.

4. What’s the best way to add more flavor?

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce or using smoked ham for a richer taste.

5. Can I use uncooked chicken instead of pre-cooked?

It’s best to use cooked chicken to keep the casserole from becoming watery. If using raw chicken, dice it into small pieces and sauté before adding to the dish.

6. How can I make this casserole lighter?

For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese, skim milk, and turkey ham. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use Greek yogurt in the sauce.

7. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients (except the breadcrumb topping) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. Add the topping before serving.

8. What can I use instead of ham?

If you prefer a different protein, try turkey, bacon, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

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Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the perfect dish for when you want something indulgent yet easy to make. With its creamy cheese sauce, smoky ham, and crispy topping, it delivers all the flavors of the classic dish in a fuss-free way. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!

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