Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

There are some recipes that just make life better, and this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is absolutely one of them. As someone who loves the sophisticated flavors of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu but doesn’t always have time for the pounding, rolling, and breading that the classic requires, this casserole version has been a game-changer in our household. It delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of the original dish but in a format that’s infinitely more weeknight-friendly.

What makes this casserole so special is how it transforms the beloved combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese into a comforting, family-style dish without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. The traditional elements are all there – tender chicken, smoky ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and a velvety sauce – but instead of individual rolled cutlets, everything mingles together in harmonious layers that bake to bubbling perfection. And the crispy, buttery breadcrumb topping? It provides that satisfying crunch you’d expect from the breaded exterior of classic Cordon Bleu.

I first developed this recipe during a particularly busy season when my family still craved special meals but I needed something that could be prepped ahead and popped in the oven. It quickly became one of our most requested dinners, earning rave reviews from both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for company, a make-ahead option for busy weeknights, or a comforting casserole to bring to a potluck, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole delivers impressive flavor with remarkable ease.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This modern twist on a classic has become a reader favorite for many good reasons:

• Simplified approach: All the flavors of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu without the fussy preparation
• Time-saving: No pounding, stuffing, or breading required
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking
• Crowd-pleasing: Sophisticated enough for company, approachable enough for family dinner
• Versatile: Works with rotisserie chicken, leftover ham, or holiday ham
• Comforting texture: Creamy, cheesy interior with a crispy, buttery topping
• Impressive presentation: Looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen
• Freezer-friendly: Excellent for meal prep and future dinners

The first time I served this to guests, they couldn’t believe it wasn’t the traditional rolled and breaded version. The flavors were so authentic, and the presentation was beautiful enough for a dinner party. Since then, it’s become my go-to when I want to impress without the stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the casserole:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 1½ pounds)
• 2 cups ham, diced (about ¾ pound)
• 3 cups Swiss cheese, shredded and divided (about 12 ounces)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt to taste (go easy, as ham and cheese add saltiness)

For the crispy topping:

• 1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

While this recipe is perfect for using rotisserie chicken or leftovers, you can also cook chicken specifically for this dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. If cooking chicken fresh, season 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Allow to cool slightly before dicing or shredding.

Pro tip: For the juiciest chicken, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred both white and dark meat for the best flavor.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

This velvety sauce brings everything together:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, white pepper, and nutmeg.
2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
3. Fold in 2 cups of the shredded Swiss cheese (reserve the remaining cup for topping).
4. Taste and adjust seasonings, keeping in mind that ham will add saltiness.

Pro tip: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened to room temperature for the smoothest sauce. If you’re short on time, cut it into cubes and microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each, until softened but not melted.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Proper layering ensures flavor in every bite:

1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread half of the diced chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Layer half of the diced ham over the chicken.
4. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the ham layer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t spread perfectly – it will melt during baking.
5. Repeat layers: remaining chicken, remaining ham, and remaining cream cheese mixture.
6. Sprinkle the reserved cup of Swiss cheese evenly over the top.

Pro tip: For the best texture, don’t press down on the layers as you assemble. The slight air pockets allow the sauce to permeate throughout the casserole as it bakes.

Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Topping

This golden crust provides the perfect textural contrast:

1. In a medium bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter and seasonings.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Pro tip: For extra golden crispiness, toast the Panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before combining with butter and seasonings. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

The final baking step brings all the flavors together:

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil, tenting slightly so it doesn’t touch the breadcrumb topping.
2. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
4. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time is important – it allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.

Pro tip: Place the baking dish on a sheet pan before putting it in the oven. This catches any potential overflow and makes it easier to handle the hot dish.

Delicious Variations on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This versatile recipe can be customized in many ways:

Protein Alternatives

• Turkey Cordon Bleu: Substitute cooked turkey for the chicken
• Pork Cordon Bleu: Use thinly sliced cooked pork tenderloin instead of chicken
• Seafood twist: Replace ham with smoked salmon for an elegant variation
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower florets

Cheese Options

• Gruyère upgrade: Replace Swiss with nutty Gruyère cheese
• Smoky flavor: Use smoked Gouda for part of the Swiss cheese
• Mild variation: Substitute provolone for a more delicate flavor
• Extra creamy: Add ¼ cup of mascarpone to the cream cheese mixture

Add-In Ideas

• Vegetable boost: Add a layer of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli
• Mushroom enhancement: Include a layer of sautéed mushrooms
• French twist: Add ¼ cup of white wine to the cream cheese mixture
• Herb garden: Add fresh herbs like tarragon, chives, or rosemary

Topping Variations

• Pretzel crust: Crush pretzels instead of using Panko for a salty crunch
• Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs to the breadcrumb mixture
• Extra cheesy: Mix crushed butter crackers with the Panko
• Gluten-free option: Use crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal planning:

• Prep ahead: Assemble completely (except for the breadcrumb topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
• Freezing unbaked: Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add fresh breadcrumb topping, and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
• Freezing baked portions: Allow the casserole to cool completely, cut into individual portions, wrap each in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Refrigerated leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Microwave on 70% power if you’re in a hurry, but the topping won’t stay as crispy.

Pro tip: If freezing, slightly undercook the casserole (taking it out about 5 minutes early) so it doesn’t become overcooked when reheated.

Serving Suggestions

This elegant casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh green vegetables: Steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or green beans
• Bright salads: Arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad
• Starches: Buttered egg noodles, wild rice pilaf, or roasted potatoes
• Breads: Warm dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a crusty baguette
• Wine pairing: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or a light Pinot Noir

For a complete dinner party menu, I love starting with Cream Cheese Pinwheels, serving this casserole with asparagus and wild rice, and finishing with a light lemon dessert.