Masters of kitchen
There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines creamy cheese, smoky ham, and juicy chicken—all baked together under a golden, crispy topping. That’s exactly what you get with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It takes everything we love about the classic French-inspired Chicken Cordon Bleu and transforms it into an easy, no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal.
Traditionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu involves pounding chicken breasts, stuffing them with ham and cheese, breading them, and then frying or baking. It’s delicious—but it also takes time, precision, and a good bit of cleanup. This casserole version simplifies everything.
With just a few layers and a creamy Dijon-infused sauce, you can have a hot, cheesy, golden-topped casserole on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even holiday potlucks.
Even better? You can prep it ahead and refrigerate or freeze it for those hectic days when cooking feels impossible. This recipe brings gourmet flavor into everyday life—without the hassle.
What Is a Chicken Ham and Cheese Casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a modern, family-friendly twist on the classic French dish. Instead of individually stuffing and rolling chicken breasts, you simply layer shredded chicken, chopped ham, Swiss cheese, and a rich, creamy Dijon sauce in a baking dish, then top it all with crispy breadcrumbs or buttery cracker crumbs.
The result? A warm, bubbly, cheesy bake that delivers the same rich flavor without the time-consuming steps. There’s no pounding, stuffing, or bread-coating needed here—just comforting layers and bold flavors, straight from your oven to your table.
If traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu is your special-occasion dinner, this version is your weekday lifesaver.
Must-Have Ingredients for This Creamy Chicken Casserole
Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this easy casserole—and why each ingredient matters.
Chicken:
Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver here, but any cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs will do. Want deeper flavor? Try using smoked or roasted chicken leftovers.
Ham:
You can use cubed ham, leftover spiral ham, or even deli slices chopped into small pieces. Opt for a variety with a smoky profile for maximum flavor.
Cheese:
Swiss cheese is the traditional choice—it melts beautifully and has that subtle tang that balances the richness. However, you can experiment with Gruyère for a deeper nutty flavor, provolone for a mild melt, or even mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
Sauce Base:
Here’s where the magic happens. This casserole gets its creamy richness from a combo of:
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Cream cheese
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Sour cream or heavy cream
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A touch of Dijon mustard
This silky sauce ties all the layers together and adds that iconic cordon bleu zing.
Topping:
You need something crispy to offset the creaminess. Go with:
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Buttery breadcrumbs
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Crushed Ritz crackers
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Panko for extra crunch
Pro Tip: Mix some shredded cheese into the sauce before layering for an even gooier bite.
Easy Variations for This Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
The beauty of this casserole is how customizable it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
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Keto / Low-Carb: Skip the cracker topping or use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan.
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Gluten-Free: Use certified GF breadcrumbs or gluten-free crackers.
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Add Pasta: Want to bulk it up? Layer in cooked macaroni or penne under the chicken and ham.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms between layers.
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Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, or swap some cheese for pepper jack.
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Stuffed Shells Twist: Stuff jumbo pasta shells with the ham/chicken mixture, then smother with sauce and cheese!
It’s one of those recipes that grows with your creativity.
Tools to Make Your Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Dish a Breeze
You won’t need any fancy equipment to pull off this casserole. Just a few basics:
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Medium saucepan or skillet (for sauce)
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk and spatula
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Cheese grater
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Knife and cutting board
No fancy gadgets required—just your favorite kitchen tools and a little love!
How to Make the Best Dijon Chicken Casserole Sauce
The secret to a perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a smooth, rich sauce—and it’s easier than you think:
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Melt butter in a saucepan and add a little minced garlic for flavor.
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Stir in cream cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth.
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Gradually add milk or heavy cream, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
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Finish by stirring in shredded Swiss (or your preferred cheese) until melted.
Don’t overheat! High heat can break the sauce—keep it at medium and stir often.
How to Layer and Assemble Your Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This is the fun part—building all those delicious layers.
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Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Add a layer of shredded chicken.
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Spread over your chopped ham.
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Pour your creamy sauce evenly on top.
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Sprinkle on shredded cheese for extra gooey goodness.
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Finish with your topping of choice—buttery cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs.
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Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a perfectly crisp top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cheesy, golden masterpiece ready to enjoy.
1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3: Spread a layer of shredded or diced cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish.
4: Sprinkle chopped or sliced ham over the chicken layer. Distribute it evenly for every bite to have a little of both.
5: Prepare the creamy sauce:
Melt butter in a saucepan, add minced garlic, then whisk in cream cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth. Slowly add milk (or cream), season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, then stir in shredded Swiss cheese until melted.
6: Pour the warm, creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and ham layers.
7: Add a final sprinkle of shredded Swiss cheese on top for extra gooey goodness.
8: Scatter your buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers across the surface for that perfect golden crunch.
9: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for an ultra-crispy topping.
Tip: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. It helps everything set up nicely and slices beautifully.
Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips
Storing:
Once the casserole has cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
For individual portions, pop them in the microwave and add a splash of milk or cream to keep things moist.
To reheat larger portions, cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezing:
Want to make it ahead?
Assemble the casserole (but don’t bake it yet), then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Make a double batch—one for now, one for later!
What to Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Since this casserole is creamy and rich, pairing it with something fresh or crisp helps balance the flavors. Here are some great options:
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A fresh green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette
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Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
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Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a hearty combo
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Steamed rice to soak up that creamy sauce
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Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping
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A spoonful of cranberry sauce adds a festive flair during the holidays
Keep your sides light and flavorful so the casserole can really shine!
Recipe Success Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Success Tips:
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Use high-quality ham and real Swiss cheese for the best flavor.
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Mix some cheese directly into the sauce for an ultra-creamy bite.
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Let the casserole rest before serving—it thickens as it cools and slices more cleanly.
Common Mistakes:
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Don’t use watery chicken—always pat it dry before layering.
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Avoid overcrowding the dish with too many add-ins.
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Don’t skip the resting time—it helps everything settle and improves texture.
For a flavor boost, sprinkle nutmeg or smoked paprika over the topping before baking.
FAQs – Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake when you’re ready.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover roasted turkey works great and gives it a holiday twist.
What cheese can I use besides Swiss?
You can try provolone, mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just be sure it melts well!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free ham, breadcrumbs, and cream cheese. Always double-check your labels.
Can I make it low-carb?
Yes! Just skip the cracker topping or use almond flour mixed with Parmesan for a crunchy low-carb alternative.
Can I add pasta to this casserole?
Sure! Stir in cooked macaroni, penne, or shells along with the chicken and ham for a heartier one-dish meal.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Saucepan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups diced or chopped ham
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese plus extra for topping
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1½ cups milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter for topping
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread cooked shredded chicken evenly across the bottom.
- Layer diced ham on top of the chicken.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté garlic, and whisk in cream cheese and Dijon until smooth.
- Gradually stir in milk, season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg, and add shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Pour sauce over the chicken and ham layers.
- Sprinkle more Swiss cheese on top.
- Mix melted butter with cracker crumbs and spread over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make it ahead: assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
- For a low-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour.
- Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or provolone for variation.
- This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts: Why It’s a Must-Try Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—comforting, flavorful, family-friendly, and easy to make—this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the one. It captures all the elegance of the original, but with zero stress and way more creamy goodness.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Perfect for holidays, lazy Sundays, or just when you need something warm and cheesy to brighten your table.