Okay, friends, let’s talk about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It’s like a warm hug on the plate, honestly. My grandma used to make Chicken Cordon Bleu for special occasions, but it always seemed to be a bad idea. I remember my grandmother making it for birthdays and Christmases. How much work does it take to make a good I’ve simplified it down to this amazing casserole, and I promise, it tastes just as delicious (maybe even better)! Why is there less fuss? If you love the flavors of ham, chicken, and cheese all melded together, but dread the rolling and slamming, then you are right. What is the breading of cordon bleu? Is it easier to make mac and cheese from scratch? Is it kid-approved?
What is chicken cordon bleu casserole?
Think of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole as a deconstructed version of the classic chicken cordon. What is essentially layers of cooked chicken, ham, and a creamy sauce (oh, that sauce! ), and a blanket of Swiss cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. The name “Cordon Bleu” means “blue ribbon” in French, suggesting it’s something that happened to you. Is this casserole worth it? What are some of the best comfort food recipes? What are some easy weekend brunch ideas? It takes all the best parts of the original and makes it incredibly simple to achieve that delicious flavor.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. The combination of savory ham, tender chicken, creamy sauce, and nutty Swiss cheese is a symphony in your mouth. What I love most about this is how easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I usually have all the ingredients on hand, or at least close to it, and I can throw it together in under 15 minutes. It is also so cost-effective. Chicken, ham, and cheese are all relatively inexpensive, especially when bought in bulk. You can feed a whole family on a small budget with this casserole. And it’s incredibly versatile. You can add vegetables, change up the cheese, or even use different types of meat. I even tried it once with leftover Thanksgiving turkey (don’t tell grandma!) and it was phenomenal. This casserole stands out because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a winner in my book every time. If you like chicken pot pie, but want something a little different, or crave the sophisticated flavor of chicken cordon bleu without the fuss, this is it!
How do I make chicken cordon bleu casserole?
Quick Overview
How do you make a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? How do you layer chicken and ham in a baking dish, smother it with cheesy sauce? Is it safe to bake it until golden brown and bubbly? What makes my recipe special is the addition of Dijon mustard to the sauce, which adds a little flavor. What is the tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese? I also prefer using rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience. Is it worth it to make a difference?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: For a
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed. I love rotisserie chicken and it’s so much more flavorful than regular chicken.
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced. Use leftover holiday turkey, deli slices, or a steak. Any kind works!
• 4 cups cooked egg noodles. I use wide egg, but any pasta shape will do in a pinch. Cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy in the casserole.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted. Real butter is always best for flavor!
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This is what thickens the sauce.
I prefer whole milk, but 2% works just fine. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
• 1 teaspoon salt. Adjust to taste.
What are some good ways to ground black pepper?
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. This is my secret ingredient!
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese. Gruyere also works well if you want a slightly sharper flavor.
For the Topping: What is your
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese. Because you can never have too much cheese!
What is the step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. Make sure the dish is well-greased so the casserole doesn’t stick. This is really important for easy serving!
Step 2: Cook Noodles
Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Make sure to cook them al dente, because they will continue to bake in the oven. Why do people like mushy noodles? I sometimes toss them with a little butter to prevent them from sticking together while I’m doing it. preparing everything else.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir until combined. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth. This creates a roux, which is the base of the creamy sauce. Be careful not to burn the butter! Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. What should I do if I want to make a thick sauce? Don’t stop stirring, or the sauce will get lumpy!
Step 4: Add Cheese & Combine
In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of Swiss cheese. Stir in the remaining cheese and stir until combined. Serve immediately. Add the cooked noodles, chicken, and ham to the saucepan and stir to combine. Make sure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
How do I spread the mixture in a baking dish? Sprinkle 1 cup of Swiss cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted. Remove from oven and let cool completely. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil for the last few minutes. How long does it take to bake Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it!
Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do you slice a banana? I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley to my salad.
What should I serve it with?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of other dishes. I usually serve it with a simple green salad to add flavor. For a more substantial meal, you could add roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus.What is a good casual weeknight dinner?Serve with steamed green beans and a crusty baguette. My kids love this combination.For a potluck:Bring a big bowl of coleslaw and some dinner rolls. It’s always good.For a slightly fancier occasion:Serve with roasted asparagus and a glass of white wine. This makes it feel more elegant. My family has always loved this with a side of cranberry sauce, which might sound strange, but the flavor is great. What are some good ways to add sweetness to a casserole? It’s a tradition we’ve had for years!
How do I make a perfect chicken casserole using Cordon Bleu?
What are some tricks to make this casserole even better?Chicken prep:If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly and shred or cube it. Is it safe to cut it into bite-sizedWhat is the consistency ofThe sauce should be thick enough to coat the noodles and chicken, but not so thick that it becomes thick. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk and cook it for another few minutes.What are the best cheeseWhile Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses, like Gruyere, provolone, etc. What are some examples of Parmesan and Swiss cheeses?What is the best way Feel free to add vegetables to the casserole, such as broccoli florets, peas, or sliced mushrooms. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole.
Spice it up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Don’t overbake: Be careful not to overbake the casserole, or the cheese will become dry and the noodles will get mushy. The casserole is done when it’s heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. I learned this the hard way after a few burnt casseroles!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is great for making ahead of time or for leftovers.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours, just to be safe.
Refrigerator Storage: You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake it for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the cheese may not melt as evenly. I like to add a little extra cheese on top before reheating to make it extra gooey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is truly a winner. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my Chicken Pot Pie or my Creamy Baked Ziti. They’re all easy, comforting, and packed with flavor! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think. And if you have any variations or tips of your own, please share them! Happy cooking!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breast
- 8 oz Sliced ham
- 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup Milk
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook chicken breast and slice into strips.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese.
- In a bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour over the chicken mixture.
- Top with remaining chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden brown.
