This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes everything you adore about the classic—juicy chicken, smoky ham, creamy cheese—and turns it into an ultra-easy, weeknight-friendly dish. No rolling, no frying, just layers of flavor baked into bubbly, golden perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

It’s comfort food without the stress. You get all the flavors of traditional chicken cordon bleu—without all the tedious prep. Think: tender chicken, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a buttery breadcrumb topping that’s simply irresistible.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time
• Cube or thinly slice the ham for even layers
• Use Swiss cheese for classic flavor or sub in mozzarella for extra melt
• Mix some mustard into the sauce for a little zing
• Broil at the end for that golden topping!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 ½ cups diced ham
• 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

For the Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of garlic powder (optional)

For the Topping:

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook until thickened, 3–5 minutes. Stir in mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. In a greased 9×13″ baking dish, layer chicken, then ham, then cheese.
5. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the layers.
6. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.
8. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
9. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

• Cream sauce = velvety richness
• Swiss cheese = classic cordon bleu flavor
• Ham = salty punch
• Crunchy topping = satisfying contrast

How to Serve This Dish

• With roasted vegetables or a green salad
• Over steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist
• Paired with mashed potatoes or garlic bread
• Served in individual ramekins for a dinner party-worthy presentation

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Stuff into wraps or sandwiches
• Use as a baked potato topping
• Turn into a creamy pasta bake
• Spoon over toasted baguette slices for a mini open-faced version

Additional Tips

• Swap in turkey or prosciutto if you’re out of ham
• Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make it GF
• Add frozen peas or steamed spinach for extra veggies
• Try gruyère cheese for a gourmet twist

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

• Serve in a cast iron skillet for rustic appeal
• Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
• Use a torch for a golden cheesy top just before serving
• Plate it with lemon wedges and a drizzle of sauce on the side

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze it?
   Absolutely—just cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
3. What cheese works best?
   Swiss is classic, but mozzarella, provolone, or gruyère work beautifully.
4. Can I use raw chicken?
   Cook it first! This casserole needs fully cooked chicken before assembling.
5. Can I make this low-carb?
   Yes—skip the flour and breadcrumbs, and use a keto-friendly thickener and topping.
6. What if I don’t have cream?
   Use all milk, or substitute with half-and-half.
7. What veggies can I add?
   Spinach, mushrooms, or even chopped broccoli work great.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Cover and bake at 350°F until warm, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
9. Can I make this dairy-free?
   It’s tricky but possible—use dairy-free milk, cheese, and butter alternatives.
10. Is it kid-friendly?
    Very! Creamy, cheesy, and hammy—most kids love it.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is cozy, creamy, and ready to impress without any fuss. Whether it’s a family dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy nights, this one’s bound to be a repeat favorite.

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