Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheese. But what if we told you there’s an even easier and equally delicious way to enjoy these flavors? Enter the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole—a one-pan wonder that takes all the delicious components of the classic dish and transforms them into a quick, easy, and comforting casserole. This version is packed with shredded chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a hearty meal to serve to guests.
This casserole combines the best of both worlds: the crispiness and golden-brown edges of a baked casserole, with the delicious flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu that everyone loves. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional recipe or looking for a shortcut, this casserole will not disappoint!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cooked and shredded
- 150g ham, diced
- 200g Swiss cheese, shredded
- 200g shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 70g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- 1 cup chicken broth (240ml)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5g)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (2.5g)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (2.5g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 150g breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g), melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- While the onions and garlic are cooking, shred the cooked chicken using two forks or chop it into small pieces. If you haven’t cooked the chicken yet, you can sauté it in the pan or bake it and then shred.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and ham mixture, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter, stirring to coat. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 820mg
Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
🍗 Cook Chicken in Advance – Save time by shredding rotisserie chicken or using leftover chicken from a previous meal. This is a great way to make the casserole even quicker to prepare.
🧀 Cheese Variations – While Swiss and cheddar cheeses are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a mozzarella blend for different textures and flavors.
🔥 Spice It Up – Add a little heat with crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
💨 Make Ahead – This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and store in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to eat. You can also freeze it before baking for a quick meal later on.
🥣 Add Veggies – For a more balanced dish, consider adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
Creative Variations to Try
🍝 Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake – Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce mixture for a Chicken Cordon Bleu pasta bake instead of a casserole. This turns it into a hearty, comforting pasta dish.
🥓 Bacon Lovers – Add crispy bacon bits to the casserole for extra crunch and a smoky flavor that complements the chicken and ham.
🍄 Mushroom Lovers – For an earthy twist, sauté mushrooms along with the onions and garlic and mix them into the casserole.
🍅 Tomato & Herb Casserole – Add diced tomatoes and fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the sauce for an Italian-inspired twist.
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