Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the cozy answer to those nights when you crave comfort food but need an easier path than the classic rolled version. It strikes the perfect balance of savory chicken, smoky ham, melty Swiss, and a creamy sauce all under a crisp topping. This crowd-pleaser is always met with happy silence and second helpings at my table.

My kids started calling this the cheesy chicken bake and it instantly became a requested favorite after a holiday when we had leftover ham. The creamy sauce mixed with a crunchy top means the whole family dives in without fuss.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: Choose chicken that is juicy and well seasoned since it is the foundation of the casserole
• Diced ham: Adds saltiness and a smoky flavor try to select a ham that is not overly sweet for the best balance
• Shredded Swiss cheese: Brings richness and a slight tang choose a block and grate it yourself for best meltability
• Cream of chicken soup: Forms the creamy sauce pick a high-quality condensed version for more flavor
• Milk: Helps loosen and smooth the sauce whole milk gives the richest result
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth opt for a reputable brand for punchy flavor
• Dried or fresh thyme: Lends herby warmth try fresh when it is available for brighter taste
• Garlic powder: Brings a mild savory note and blends into the sauce without chunks
• Paprika: Gives color and subtle warmth Hungarian sweet paprika works great
• Panko bread crumbs: Makes the topping crisp and light check date to ensure freshness
• Unsalted butter: Melts into the bread crumbs for the best golden finish always use unsalted so you control the salt level
• Salt and cracked black pepper: Allows you to customize seasoning to your taste
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps everything lift cleanly from the dish

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and coat a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks

Mix the Meat and Cheese Layer:

Combine cooked chopped chicken diced ham and half of the Swiss cheese in a large bowl Stir gently but thoroughly so you have an even mixture Spread this into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top

Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a separate bowl whisk together the cream of chicken soup milk Dijon mustard dried thyme garlic powder a pinch of salt black pepper and about a quarter teaspoon paprika Mix until the sauce is silky with no lumps

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and ham layer Gently tilt the pan if needed to coax it into the corners Sprinkle the remaining half of the Swiss cheese evenly across the top

Prepare and Add the Topping:

Melt the unsalted butter in a small microwave safe bowl Stir in the Panko bread crumbs and the remaining paprika until the crumbs are all coated Scatter this mixture over the casserole making sure to get some in every area for an even crunch

Bake to Golden Bubbly Perfection:

Place the dish uncovered in your preheated oven Bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown If you notice uneven browning rotate the pan halfway through

Rest and Serve:

Let the hot casserole sit for about five minutes so everything settles This makes slicing and serving much easier and helps prevent burned mouths

I always look forward to Swiss cheese in this dish The way it melts and bubbles over the casserole while turning lightly golden is absolutely irresistible The first time I served this was for a cozy Sunday dinner and we ended up with zero leftovers and big smiles all around

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to reheat try adding a splash of milk before microwaving or reheating in the oven to keep things creamy You can also portion out single servings in airtight containers for quick lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken breast for extra flavor Smoked Gouda or Gruyere cheese work well in place of Swiss If you do not have Panko bread crumbs use regular dried crumbs just note the topping will be a bit denser

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a bright green salad or lightly steamed vegetables for a complete meal A little extra Dijon on the side makes a nice sharp contrast My family likes this alongside roasted asparagus or even some buttery peas

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken Cordon Bleu was first created in Switzerland and became popular in American restaurants and home kitchens for its creamy filling and cheesy crust This casserole version is a homespun adaptation that worships the flavors but is much less fussy than rolling chicken around ham and cheese

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh thyme and spring onions in early spring Swap in leftover turkey or spiral ham after winter holidays Add lightly blanched broccoli to the casserole for more veggies

Success Stories

A friend made this at a potluck and it vanished before anything else on the table My grandmother even asked for the recipe after her second helping which is a huge endorsement in our family If you ever need a reliable dish for sharing this is it

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can assemble and freeze this casserole before baking Cover the cooled unbaked dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months When ready to bake allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed You may need a few extra minutes in the oven as the dish will be cold

This casserole brings comfort to any table and is sure to be a family favorite. You will want to keep this recipe handy for repeat cravings!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves prep time. Simply chop or shred before assembling.

→ What cheeses work besides Swiss?

Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone are great substitutes if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal for the topping.

→ Is the casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, assemble without baking and freeze. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add topping before baking.