This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, combining tender chicken, smoky ham, and creamy Swiss cheese into an easy, comforting bake. With a creamy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it has all the flavors of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, but with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to serve a comforting dish to family and friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Chicken and Ham
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced ham. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Bake
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and makes it quick and easy to prepare. You can also use any leftover cooked chicken.
- Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, but feel free to use Gruyère or even mozzarella for a slightly different flavor.
- Topping: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will also work if that’s what you have on hand.
Recipe Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumb topping and add extra cheese for a low-carb version of this casserole.
- Vegetable Addition: Add 1-2 cups of steamed broccoli or spinach to the chicken and ham mixture for extra nutrition.
- Cheddar Twist: Use shredded cheddar cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile that’s just as delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into a convenient one-pan meal. With tender chicken, smoky ham, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with loved ones. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors in every bite!