Can I use leftover chicken for this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly. Just ensure it's not heavily seasoned with competing flavors that might clash with the ham and Swiss.

Is there a way to make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, use dairy-free butter, and replace the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free mozzarella alternative. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking and extend the baking time by about 10 minutes since you'll be starting with a cold casserole.

What's the best way to prevent a watery Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Ensure your sauce is properly thickened before assembling, and if using frozen chicken or ham, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Can I make individual portions of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Absolutely! Divide the mixture among ramekins or small baking dishes for elegant individual servings. Reduce the baking time to about 20 minutes for these smaller portions.

How do I know when my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is done?

Your casserole is ready when it's bubbling around the edges, the top is golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot to the touch.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole How To Make This Stunning Dish

Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole How To Make This Stunning Dish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-American Fusion
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded; 8 oz ham, diced; 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded; 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

This stunning Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole transforms the classic French dish into a convenient, family-friendly meal without sacrificing flavor. Featuring layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy Dijon sauce, all topped with a golden panko crust.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
8 oz ham, diced
8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth. Cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Spread half of the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the ham, then half of the Swiss cheese.
Pour half of the sauce over the first layer. Repeat layers with remaining chicken, ham, cheese, and sauce.
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling around edges and top is golden brown.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add breadcrumb topping just before baking.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Cheese Alternative: Gruyère can be substituted for Swiss cheese for a more complex flavor.
Reheating: For best results, reheat covered at 325°F until center reaches 165°F, then uncover for the last 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestion: Pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-American Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
Calories: 425 calories
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 840mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chicken cordon bleu, casserole recipe, ham and swiss casserole, baked chicken dish, french-inspired casserole