Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Creamy, Crunchy Classic
Introduction: The Story Behind Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved dish known for its crispy coating, tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese. Originally inspired by classic Swiss cuisine, this dish gained popularity in France and later became an American favorite. While traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu involves rolling and breading chicken breasts, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers a simpler, more comforting take on the dish.
With creamy layers of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust, this casserole captures all the rich flavors of the original but is much easier to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
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History of Chicken Cordon Bleu
The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu can be traced back to Switzerland, where “cordon bleu” (French for “blue ribbon”) was a term used to signify excellence in cuisine. The original dish evolved from schnitzel, a breaded and fried meat cutlet. Over time, the recipe was adapted to include ham and cheese stuffed inside the meat, creating what we now know as Chicken Cordon Bleu.
The dish became especially popular in France and the United States in the mid-20th century, as chefs and home cooks sought elegant yet approachable meals. Eventually, variations emerged, leading to the creation of casseroles that incorporated the same flavors in a more convenient, one-pan format.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Easy to Make – No need for rolling and breading chicken.
Great for Meal Prep – Perfect for freezing and reheating.
Comfort Food – A creamy, cheesy dish that everyone loves.
Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.
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Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following:
Main Ingredients:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
8 slices ham, chopped
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
Creamy Sauce:
1 cup cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a tangy kick)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Crunchy Topping:
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped ham, and Swiss cheese.
3. Make the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together:
Cream of chicken soup
Milk
Dijon mustard
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Stir until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ham, and cheese mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly, then transfer it to the greased baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are fully coated.
6. Bake
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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Nutritional Information
This casserole is rich in protein, but also contains dairy and carbohydrates. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (for six servings):
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 32g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
For a low-carb version, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.
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Variations & Substitutions
Want to tweak this recipe to match your taste? Here are some great alternatives:
1. Swap the Cheese
Instead of Swiss cheese, try:
Mozzarella (for a gooey texture)
Gruyère (for a more authentic, nutty flavor)
Cheddar (for extra sharpness)
2. Change the Meat
Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
Substitute ham with bacon for a smokier taste.
3. Make it Healthier
Use Greek yogurt instead of cream of chicken soup for a lighter sauce.
Opt for whole-wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
4. Gluten-Free Version
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
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Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
1. Use Rotisserie Chicken
Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful, juicy, and perfect for casseroles.
2. Make it Extra Crispy
For an ultra-crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan before baking.
3. Don’t Overbake
Overcooking can dry out the casserole. Remove it from the oven once the top is golden brown and bubbly.
4. Prep Ahead for Busy Nights
Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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Serving Suggestions
This creamy casserole pairs well with light and refreshing sides:
Steamed Green Beans – Adds crunch and freshness.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – For extra indulgence.
Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
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How to Store & Reheat
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking for best results.
2. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
A homemade alternative:
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together and use as a replacement.
3. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping before serving.
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Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes the elegance of the classic dish and transforms it into an easy, comforting, family-friendly meal. With creamy layers, smoky ham, melted cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck crowd.
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a hassle-free format. If you love it, share your thoughts and variations in the comments! Happy cooking!
