If you’re searching for an incredibly easy chicken casserole recipe that delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu without any of the traditional fuss, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your ultimate solution! Designed for busy weeknights and straightforward preparation, this delightful dish requires just a handful of staple ingredients, making it a perfect go-to when time is precious. Layers of succulent chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese are combined with a delightful crunch from a stuffing topping, then baked to golden, cheesy perfection. It’s an ingenious way to transform leftover ham or a store-bought rotisserie chicken into a spectacular family meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu? Unpacking a Classic
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a renowned culinary classic, celebrated for its exquisite combination of flavors and textures. Traditionally, it involves a tender chicken cutlet that is pounded thin, then carefully wrapped around a slice of ham and a generous portion of Swiss cheese. This delicate package is then breaded, often with a crispy panko or breadcrumb coating, and either pan-fried to a beautiful golden-brown or baked until juicy and cooked through. The result is a sophisticated dish where the ham and cheese melt together, creating a rich, savory filling that perfectly complements the tender chicken. It’s a dish often associated with special occasions or fine dining due to its perceived complexity.
However, our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole reimagines this elegant dish into an accessible, family-friendly format. It captures all those beloved, familiar flavors – the savory chicken, the smoky ham, and the distinctive nutty Swiss cheese – and transforms them into an easy-to-assemble casserole. This adaptation eliminates the time-consuming individual stuffing and breading steps, making it perfect for feeding the whole family on a busy weeknight. The layers of chicken and ham meld wonderfully with a creamy, cheesy sauce, all crowned with a crisp, golden stuffing topping. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that offers the essence of the original in a much simpler package, delivering a truly irresistible dining experience that everyone will adore.
If you’re a fan of comforting, easy-to-make casseroles and hearty skillet meals, you’ll find plenty more to love on our site! After you enjoy this delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, be sure to explore other popular recipes. You might particularly enjoy our Chili Mac Skillet, a delicious one-pan wonder that combines savory beef and pasta in a zesty chili sauce. Or perhaps our Pizza Pasta, which brings all your favorite pizza flavors into a comforting pasta bake. For those who love a bit of Tex-Mex flair, our Easy Skillet Tamale Pie offers a flavorful and convenient twist on a classic. Each of these options provides a fantastic, hearty dinner solution that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Effortless Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: The Ultimate Weeknight Meal
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Stuffing stands out as one of those truly effortless chicken casserole recipes that you’ll want to keep in your rotation. It comes together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast. Its genius lies in its flexibility, making it perfect for utilizing leftover ham from a holiday dinner or repurposing a rotisserie chicken purchased for convenience. This dish is designed to minimize prep time without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
The magic happens with each thoughtfully assembled layer: tender chunks of cooked chicken, savory diced ham, and plenty of gooey Swiss cheese. These core ingredients are nestled in a creamy, tangy sauce that brings all the classic Cordon Bleu flavors to life. But what truly elevates this casserole is its topping: a layer of prepared stuffing mix, baked until golden and crispy. This stuffing not only adds an incredible texture contrast to the creamy interior but also infuses the dish with a comforting, herbaceous aroma and flavor that’s simply irresistible. This combination creates a rich, cheesy flavor profile complemented by the perfect amount of crunch in every bite.
Beyond its ease and delicious taste, this casserole is also incredibly budget-friendly. By leveraging simple, readily available ingredients, many of which you might already have on hand, it offers an economical solution for feeding your family. It’s a smart choice for maximizing leftovers, reducing food waste, and ensuring a hearty, satisfying dinner without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a true weeknight hero.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
One of the best features of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe is its reliance on simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create a profoundly flavorful meal. You’ll be surprised at how much rich, savory taste you can achieve with just a few key components. For a comprehensive list of quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the full printable recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.
- Chicken Flavored Stuffing Mix: This is the secret weapon for a wonderfully crunchy topping and an extra layer of savory flavor. A 6-ounce box, prepared according to its package directions, works perfectly. This also provides an excellent opportunity to use up any holiday stuffing leftovers you might have, adding an even more homemade touch. The seasoned breadcrumbs bake up beautifully, forming a crisp crust that’s utterly delicious.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient forms the luscious, creamy base of our casserole sauce. It provides a comforting richness and helps bind all the components together, infusing the dish with its signature savory chicken flavor. While a canned soup is a convenient shortcut, if you prefer a homemade touch or want to control ingredients, consider making your own homemade cream of chicken soup for an even fresher taste.
- Dijon Mustard: Don’t skip this! A tablespoon of Dijon mustard adds a subtle, yet crucial, tangy kick and depth of flavor that brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream. It’s a classic pairing with ham and chicken in Cordon Bleu dishes and truly elevates the casserole beyond a simple cream sauce.
- Cooked Chicken: This recipe thrives on convenience. You’ll need approximately 5 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fully cooked and cubed. This is where your rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken or turkey really shines, saving you valuable time. If starting from scratch, simply boil, bake, or pan-fry chicken breasts and then cube them before incorporating into the casserole.
- Ham: Diced into bite-sized pieces, the ham brings its signature salty, smoky flavor to the party, which is quintessential to Cordon Bleu. Utilizing leftover ham from the holidays is an excellent, economical option. Alternatively, you can easily find pre-cubed ham in most grocery stores, or ask your deli counter to slice a thicker piece which you can then dice yourself for maximum freshness and flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: The star of the cheesy goodness! Swiss cheese is non-negotiable for authentic Cordon Bleu flavor. Its distinct nutty, mild, and slightly sweet profile perfectly melts into the casserole. While pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, we highly recommend using sliced Swiss cheese (as we do here) or grating your own from a block. Grating your own cheese, as discussed in our guide “Why You Should Grate Your Own Cheese,” often yields a superior melt and texture in baked dishes.
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards a remarkably easy and incredibly satisfying meal that captures the essence of a classic in a comforting, casserole form.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
One of the most appealing aspects of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is how swiftly and effortlessly it comes together. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it ideal for busy evenings or when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish. Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and delicious meal:
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust. While the oven preheats, prepare a 2-quart baking dish by lightly coating it with non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, ensuring your delicious casserole slides right out.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Base Mixture
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken soup with the Dijon mustard. Whisk these two ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended and smooth. The mustard adds a wonderful tang that perfectly complements the creamy soup. Once the sauce is ready, add your cooked and cubed chicken pieces along with the diced ham to the bowl. Stir everything gently until the chicken and ham are completely coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. Ensure every piece is well-covered to maximize taste in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Transfer the chicken and ham mixture from the bowl into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer. Next, arrange the slices of Swiss cheese over the top of the chicken mixture. You can overlap them slightly to ensure full coverage, guaranteeing plenty of melty, gooey cheese in every serving. Finally, spoon the prepared chicken-flavored stuffing mix evenly over the layer of Swiss cheese. This topping will bake into a wonderfully crisp, golden crust that adds essential texture and flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Once assembled, cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to prevent the stuffing from browning too quickly while allowing the casserole to heat through evenly and the cheese to melt beautifully. Place the covered dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges, thoroughly heated through, and the cheese has melted into a creamy delight. If you desire a crispier, more golden-brown stuffing topping, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy classic!
Smart Tips for Storing and Freezing Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not only delicious freshly baked, but it’s also incredibly convenient for meal prepping and managing leftovers. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come, or even pull out a ready-made meal from the freezer when you need it most.
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftover casserole should be cooled completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer the portions into an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents freezer burn. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can simply warm individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier topping, reheat larger portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until warm, then uncover for the last few minutes if desired.
- Freezing for Future Meals: This casserole is wonderfully freezer-friendly, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking or preparing meals in advance.
- To freeze unbaked: Assemble the casserole completely in a freezer-safe baking dish, but do not bake it. Cover the dish tightly first with plastic wrap, pressing it down onto the surface of the casserole to minimize air exposure, then with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap, cover loosely with foil, and bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure it’s fully heated through.
- To freeze baked: If you have baked leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. You can freeze it in individual portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for convenient grab-and-go meals, or freeze the entire remaining casserole tightly wrapped. It will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven (covered) or microwave until warmed through. Note that the stuffing topping might lose some of its crispiness when reheated from frozen.
With these simple storage and freezing tips, you can extend the life of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, ensuring you always have a comforting, delicious meal just a reheat away.
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Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a rich, satisfying, and wonderfully cheesy main dish that truly stands on its own. However, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Since the casserole is quite hearty, lighter, fresher accompaniments often work best to provide a beautiful contrast.
- Crisp Green Salad: A vibrant green salad is always an excellent choice. Its fresh, crisp texture and often tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy, savory casserole. Consider a simple mix of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light lemon-thyme vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing beautifully cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham, cleansing the palate with each bite and adding a much-needed pop of color to your plate.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: For a simple yet nutritious side, serve this casserole with a warm vegetable. Green beans, asparagus, or broccoli are fantastic options. Steamed green beans tossed with a knob of butter and a pinch of salt and pepper offer a classic, comforting pairing. Roasted broccoli or asparagus, with their slightly caramelized edges, bring an earthy sweetness that complements the savory casserole without overwhelming it. These vegetables add essential nutrients and fiber, completing the meal beautifully.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: If you’re looking for a heartier side that still complements the casserole without being too heavy, consider some buttered homemade egg noodles. Their delicate, soft texture and buttery flavor create a comforting bed for the casserole, soaking up some of its delicious sauce. This is a particularly good option for those who enjoy a more substantial meal, perfect for colder evenings.
- Simple Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf, perhaps with a hint of herbs like parsley or chives, can also serve as an excellent absorbent base for the casserole’s creamy sauce. It’s a neutral accompaniment that won’t compete with the main flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t underestimate the power of a good piece of crusty bread or garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate, ensuring no drop of that deliciousness goes to waste.
Choose your side based on your preference for lightness or heartiness, and enjoy a well-rounded meal that celebrates the wonderful flavors of this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
We’ve gathered some of the most common questions about our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to help you master this delicious and easy recipe. Whether you’re wondering about making it ahead, adapting ingredients, or handling leftovers, we’ve got you covered!
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meal prep. You can assemble the entire casserole, including all the layers, up to 24 hours in advance. Once assembled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and bake as directed in the recipe. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting from a chilled state. - Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for future meals! For the best results, we recommend freezing it before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a little extra time if necessary. You can also freeze baked leftovers, though the stuffing topping might lose some crispiness upon reheating. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating individual portions is very simple. For quick reheating, place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. If you’re reheating a larger portion or want to restore some crispiness to the topping, transfer it to an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the stuffing. - Can I use different types of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu and offers a distinct flavor, you can certainly experiment with other melting cheeses. Gruyere is a fantastic alternative, offering a similar nutty flavor with a bit more intensity. Provolone or a mild white cheddar could also work, providing a different but equally delicious cheesy profile. However, for the classic Cordon Bleu taste, Swiss is highly recommended. - What kind of chicken is best for this casserole?
Any cooked chicken works perfectly! This recipe is ideal for using up leftovers, whether it’s roasted chicken, baked chicken breasts, or even grilled chicken. A store-bought rotisserie chicken is also a fantastic shortcut, offering tender, pre-seasoned chicken that saves a lot of prep time. Ensure your chicken is shredded or cubed into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole. - Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance both the nutritional value and flavor of your casserole. Steamed broccoli florets, frozen peas, or finely diced cooked carrots could be gently folded into the chicken and ham mixture before baking. Just be sure not to add too many watery vegetables, or they might make the casserole too liquidy.
These FAQs should help you confidently prepare and enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, ensuring a delightful meal every time!
Explore More Comforting Casserole Recipes to Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and comfort of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, then you’re in for a treat! We have a treasure trove of other delightful casserole recipes that promise hearty satisfaction with minimal effort. Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prepping. Here are a few more to add to your must-try list:
- Chicken & Rice Cordon Bleu Casserole: A fantastic variation of today’s recipe, this version incorporates rice directly into the bake, creating an even more substantial and flavorful one-dish meal. It’s pictured above and offers a slightly different texture and heartiness, perfect for rice lovers.
- Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole: For those who enjoy a bit of Tex-Mex warmth and the convenience of a slow cooker, this enchilada casserole is a dream. Layers of chicken, green chiles, and cheesy goodness simmer to perfection, offering a flavorful and fuss-free dinner.
- Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna: Imagine the rich flavors of lasagna but with the incredible ease of store-bought ravioli and your slow cooker. This recipe simplifies a classic, delivering tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese with very little hands-on time.
- Tuna Tetrazzini Casserole: A timeless classic that brings together creamy pasta, tender tuna, and a savory sauce, all baked under a golden topping. It’s a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for a nostalgic weeknight dinner.
- Chicken & Doritos Casserole: For a fun and flavorful twist, this casserole uses crushed Doritos as a crunchy topping, adding an unexpected kick of cheesy nacho flavor to a creamy chicken base. It’s a kid-friendly favorite that adults will secretly (or openly!) adore.
- Mom’s Taco Casserole Recipe: This beloved family recipe combines all the vibrant flavors of tacos into a convenient, layered casserole. It’s customizable with your favorite taco toppings and makes for an exciting and easy dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Each of these casseroles offers a unique flavor profile and a promise of comforting, easy dining. Get ready to expand your repertoire of go-to family meals!
Now, let’s get down to the details of this simple yet sensational Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe. We are confident it will become a cherished favorite in your household, simplifying dinner time while delivering outstanding flavor. We truly can’t wait to hear what you think when you make it. Your feedback and reviews are always welcome and help our community of home cooks!
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Print Recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 (6 ounce) package chicken flavored stuffing mix prepared according to package instructions
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 5 small boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked and cubed
- 2.5 cups ham cooked, chopped
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees, prepare a 2 quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Whisk soup and mustard together in a medium sized bowl, stir in the chicken and ham. Pour into the casserole, top with cheese slices.
- Spoon prepared stuffing over the top.
- Bake 35-40 minutes or until heated through.
Notes
Storing and Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Nutrition
Calories: 239kcal |
Carbohydrates: 0.4g |
Protein: 28g |
Fat: 13g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 84mg |
Sodium: 648mg |
Potassium: 399mg |
Fiber: 0.1g |
Sugar: 0.04g |
Vitamin A: 129IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 121mg |
Iron: 1mg
This recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole was originally posted on September 18, 2015. It has been thoroughly updated and expanded to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and provide even more helpful tips and information, and was reshared on March 18, 2025.