If you’ve been searching for that perfect comfort food to impress family and friends, look no further than this Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe. It combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in one easy, cozy dish that bakes up golden and bubbly every time. This casserole takes the beloved elegance of chicken cordon bleu and transforms it into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Delicious and versatile, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple, yet essential ingredients that work beautifully together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a special role, from the tender shredded chicken to the creamy, tangy sour cream and the nutty Swiss cheese that melts perfectly over the top.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience and rich flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced: Adds a smoky, savory punch that balances the creamy cheese.
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided: Swiss cheese melts smoothly and gives that iconic nutty taste.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and a slight tang to brighten the casserole.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the texture and helps blend the sauce evenly.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds just the right hint of sharpness without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle depth and warmth to every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild savory note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs, plain or seasoned (optional): Provides a delightful crunchy topping if you like extra texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional): Helps toast the bread crumbs to a golden crisp for the perfect finish.
How to Make Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This sets the stage for a casserole that’s easy to serve and ensures nothing will stick, giving you those lovely golden edges everyone loves.
Step 2: Combine the Chicken, Ham, and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese. This mixture forms the hearty base of your casserole, where juicy chicken and savory ham meld with melty cheese to create irresistible layers.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the heart of the casserole, coating every ingredient with rich flavor and a silky texture that will keep the dish moist and delightful.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Meat Mixture
Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every bite is evenly coated with that luscious sauce—it’s what makes this casserole so satisfyingly creamy.
Step 5: Spread the Mixture Evenly
Pour everything into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out with a spatula to create an even layer. This helps the casserole cook evenly and makes for an impressive presentation when it comes out of the oven.
Step 6: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Swiss cheese over the top. This extra cheese not only adds flavor but also melts into a luscious golden crust that’s impossible to resist.
Step 7: Optional Crunchy Topping
If you love a little crunch, combine bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer. The butter helps the crumbs brown beautifully, introducing a welcome contrast in texture to the creamy interior.
Step 8: Bake Until Melty and Bubbling
Bake your casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s thoroughly heated and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly. This step transforms your ingredients into a cohesive, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
Step 9: Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time lets all the flavors meld together even more and makes it easier to cut perfect squares without everything falling apart.
How to Serve Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that lifts the rich flavors. You can also top with a light dusting of paprika for visual appeal and a subtle smoky note.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even simple roasted potatoes. These sides add brightness and a variety of textures that balance the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for elegant single servings or layer it over rice or egg noodles to transform the meal into a comforting one-dish wonder. For a twist, add a drizzle of honey mustard sauce on top just before serving for extra zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the casserole even better the next day when reheated.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain the crispy topping. Microwaving works for a quick fix but may soften the crunch.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! Gruyère or mozzarella can be great substitutes, though Swiss cheese gives that signature nutty flavor essential for the classic taste.
Is it necessary to cook the chicken beforehand?
Yes, cooked chicken is essential for this recipe since the casserole mainly needs to be baked until heated through rather than cooked from raw.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them altogether for a gluten-free version, and double-check any processed ingredients for gluten content.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It provides similar creaminess with a touch of tang, maintaining the casserole’s moisture and flavor.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding steamed spinach, mushrooms, or peas can enhance both nutrition and flavor, making the dish even more hearty without overpowering the classic cordon bleu profile.
Final Thoughts
This Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and sophistication in such an effortless way. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or want to wow guests with minimal fuss, this casserole is a winner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!
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Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that combines tender cooked chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
Dairy and Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs, plain or seasoned
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine the main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese. This forms the hearty base of your casserole.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture adds the classic creamy and tangy flavor to the casserole.
- Mix sauce with chicken and ham: Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for that signature melted cheese layer.
- Prepare optional breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Then, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the cheese is melted, and the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to set slightly before serving. This helps the casserole hold its shape and improves the dining experience.
Notes
- You can use plain or seasoned bread crumbs for the topping, depending on your taste preference.
- Substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different but delicious flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and omit the butter from the breadcrumb topping.
- Ensure chicken and ham are fully cooked before assembling to guarantee proper food safety.
