Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved dish known for its crispy breaded chicken, rich ham, and creamy cheese filling. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes the essence of the classic dish and transforms it into a simple, crowd-pleasing bake. With layers of tender chicken, smoky ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and a crispy, buttery topping, this casserole delivers all the flavors you love with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No need for breading or rolling; simply layer and bake.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Great for Leftovers – Reheats beautifully for meals throughout the week.
• Customizable – Adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 1/2 cups diced ham
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or Panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Layers

1. Spread the cooked, shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer the diced ham on top of the chicken.
3. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the ham layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole layers.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the buttery topping over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Variations and Substitutions

• Low-Carb Version: Replace the crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Different Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely.
• Add Veggies: Mix in cooked spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds extra flavor while saving time.

What can I use instead of ham?

Turkey or bacon are great substitutes for ham in this casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes, if you replace the cracker topping with crushed pork rinds or omit it altogether.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce may be thinner. Use whole milk for the best results.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

Steamed vegetables, a side salad, or roasted potatoes complement this dish well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free butter for the topping.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or drizzle hot sauce before serving.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Use two baking dishes and bake them side by side.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better since pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole delivers all the comforting flavors of the classic dish in a simple, bake-and-serve format. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want an easy meal prep option, this casserole is a delicious and satisfying choice. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy topping for the ultimate comfort food experience!

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