The first time I pulled this chicken cordon bleu casserole from the oven, the kitchen filled with that golden, bubbly cheese aroma that makes everyone appear from nowhere. It’s become our go-to when I want all the fancy flavors of the classic dish without any of the rolling or stuffing fuss.
Think tender chicken layered with smoky ham and melted Swiss, all swimming in a creamy dijon sauce that tastes like pure comfort. This easy chicken cordon bleu bake uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and it comes together in one dish. Full details in the blog!
I learned to make the original version from Julia’s old recipe cards, but honestly? This casserole version has become my favorite because it feeds the whole family without the stress. I’ve tested every ratio of cheese to cream, and trust me, you’ll love the secret ingredient that makes it extra rich.
PrintChicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: Easy Irresistible Dish
This chicken cordon bleu casserole delivers comforting classic flavors with ease. Featuring savory ham and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, this easy chicken cordon bleu bake is perfect for weeknights. Enjoy the delicious taste of chicken cordon bleu with dijon sauce made simple.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese divided
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup bread crumbs plain or seasoned optional
- 2 tablespoons melted butter optional
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F 175°C and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Mix the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of Swiss cheese together in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add this creamy mixture to the chicken and ham, stirring carefully to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Scatter the remaining 1/2 cup Swiss cheese over the surface.
- If you choose, mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling hot and cheese has melted.
- Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use good quality ham and Swiss cheese for the best flavor
- Don’t overbake the casserole
- If the bread crumb topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the casserole with foil
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving
- For a richer flavor, try using Gruyere cheese instead of Swiss
- Add sauteed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or asparagus tips for added vegetables
- Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella would all work well in this recipe as cheese substitutions
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This chicken cordon bleu casserole takes everything you adore about the elegant original and transforms it into a cozy weeknight hero. Instead of the tedious rolling and breading, you get all those dreamy flavors layered together in one bubbling dish.
- No fussy technique required: Just mix, layer, and bake until golden
- Family-sized portions: Feeds six hungry people with leftovers for lunch
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble in the morning, pop in the oven when you’re ready
The creamy Dijon sauce binds everything together like a warm hug, while the Swiss cheese gets all bubbly and irresistible on top. It’s comfort food that feels a little fancy but couldn’t be easier.
Ingredient Breakdown and Kitchen Tips
The magic happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Your cooked chicken becomes the star, while the ham adds that signature smoky richness we all crave in this classic combo.
| Ingredient | Kitchen Tip | Easy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor | Leftover turkey works beautifully |
| Swiss cheese | Freshly shredded melts smoother than pre-shredded | Gruyere for extra sophistication |
| Dijon mustard | Don’t skip thisit’s the flavor bridge | Whole grain mustard for texture |
| Sour cream | Room temperature blends easier | Greek yogurt works in a pinch |
Pro tip: I like to use a mix of light and dark chicken meat for the best texture and flavor. The garlic powder and onion powder might seem basic, but they add that subtle depth that makes people ask for your secret.
How It All Comes Together
The beauty of this easy chicken cordon bleu bake lies in its forgiving nature. You’re basically creating layers of comfort, starting with your protein base and building up to that gorgeous golden top.
First, you’ll combine your chicken, ham, and most of the Swiss cheese in one bowlthink of it as the foundation. In another bowl, whisk together your creamy sauce with the sour cream, milk, and that essential Dijon mustard. This creates the silky binding that holds everything together.
- Layer it right: Pour the sauce over your protein mixture and fold gently until coated
- Top with care: Reserve that final half cup of cheese for the bubbly top layer
- Add crunch: The buttered bread crumbs create a golden crown that’s totally optional but so worth it
Timing and Troubleshooting Made Simple
Getting the timing right ensures your casserole comes out creamy inside with that perfect golden top. Here’s how to nail it every single time, plus solutions for the most common hiccups.
| Timing | What to Look For | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| 25-30 minutes at 350°F | Bubbly edges, melted cheese | Cover with foil if browning too fast |
| 5-minute rest | Sauce should thicken slightly | Longer rest = firmer slices |
| Reheating leftovers | Add splash of milk to prevent drying | Low heat, covered, stirring occasionally |
Common concern: If your casserole looks watery, don’t panic. Let it rest those full five minutesthe sauce will thicken as it cools slightly. Next time, make sure your chicken isn’t carrying extra moisture from thawing.
Serving Ideas and Storage Wisdom
This creamy chicken ham Swiss casserole shines brightest when served family-style, straight from that beautiful 9×13 dish. I love pairing it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance all that rich, cheesy goodness.
- Perfect pairings: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad
- Leftover magic: Tastes even better the next day when flavors have had time to meld
- Freezer friendly: Assemble without baking, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months
Storage tip: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating individual portions, a splash of milk brings back that creamy texture we all love.
Expert Says
When making chicken cordon bleu casserole, consider using whole grain breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients. This dish combines protein from the chicken with calcium from the cheese, making it a balanced meal. Don’t forget to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
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The Journey to My Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Creating this chicken cordon bleu casserole was a delightful challenge that took me several attempts. One time, I accidentally used too much cheese, turning it into a gooey mess! But as each layer came together, I finally captured the comforting essence of family dinners that I cherish so much.
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!
This chicken cordon bleu casserole bakes up golden and bubbly in just 30 minutes, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of melted Swiss and smoky ham. You’ll love how the creamy Dijon sauce brings everything togetherit’s like getting all the fancy restaurant flavors without any of the fussy rolling or breading work.
Try swapping in leftover turkey during the holidays, or add a handful of frozen peas for extra color and nutrition. A trick I learned from Julia’s old notes: let it rest those full five minutes before serving so the sauce thickens perfectly. Leftovers reheat beautifully with just a splash of milk to bring back that silky texture.
I’d love to see how this turns out in your kitchen! Share a photo and tag usthere’s something so heartwarming about seeing family recipes come to life in different homes. Did you grow up with classic cordon bleu on special occasions? Save this easy version for your next Sunday dinner, and watch how quickly it becomes a new family favorite.
