Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Get your step-by-step recipe and ingredients for chicken cordon bleu casserole below!

Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare yet packed with gourmet flavors?

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your answer.

With tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese baked in a creamy Dijon sauce, this casserole offers all the elegance of the traditional French dish in a fuss-free format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: No rolling or frying required – this recipe simplifies Chicken Cordon Bleu into a family-friendly casserole.
2. Rich and Creamy: The Dijon sauce ties all the elements together with its luxurious flavor and texture.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap cheeses, or adjust the seasoning to make it your own.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Dijon Cream Sauce

• Butter: Forms the rich base of the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce to perfection.
• Milk & Chicken Broth: Creates a creamy yet light consistency.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides the signature tangy flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty richness.
• Seasonings: Bouillon powder, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste.

the Casserole Layers

• Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts for convenience.
• Ham: Adds a savory, salty contrast to the chicken.
• Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor.
• Broccoli: Balances the richness with a fresh, crisp-tender bite.

the Toppings

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• Butter: Helps the breadcrumbs achieve their perfect crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

1. Make the Dijon Cream Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Cook the Garlic: Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Whisk in the Flour: Lower the heat to prevent burning and whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in ½ cup chicken broth and 1½ cups milk. Continue stirring until smooth.
5. Incorporate Flavorings: Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon bouillon powder, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Assemble the Casserole

1. Blanch the Broccoli: Boil a pot of salted water and blanch 2 cups of broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
3. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 2-quart casserole dish, layer 4 cups shredded chicken, the blanched broccoli, and 2 cups diced ham. Top with 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese.
4. Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the Dijon cream sauce over the layered ingredients.

3. Add the Topping and Bake

1. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
2. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve

• Portion and Plate: Slice the casserole into portions and serve hot.
• Pair with Sides: Complement the richness with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Presentation Tips

• Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color.
• Plating: Use a neutral-colored dish to highlight the vibrant layers of chicken, broccoli, and cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations to Try

1. Cheese Substitutes: Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella.
2. Add More Veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
3. Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
4. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Dijon with a hint of horseradish for extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, but the breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch. You can substitute with crushed crackers or omit entirely for a smoother finish.

Do I have to blanch the broccoli?
Blanching helps maintain the broccoli’s bright color and crisp texture. If you prefer softer broccoli, you can skip this step.

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken provides better texture and flavor.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Dijon Cream Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp flour
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp bouillon powder
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups ham, diced
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded

For the Topping:

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make the Dijon cream sauce as instructed above.
3. Layer chicken, broccoli, and ham in a greased casserole dish. Pour sauce on top.
4. Sprinkle with Swiss cheese, then Panko topping.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines gourmet flavors with an easy-to-make approach, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Try it today and enjoy the comforting blend of chicken, ham, cheese, and creamy Dijon sauce!