The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a simplified, crowd-pleasing take on the traditional European dish known for its rolled chicken breast, stuffed with ham and cheese, and typically breaded and fried. This casserole version deconstructs the dish into a single pan meal, preserving all the savory, cheesy goodness while cutting down on prep time and complexity.

While the original version of Chicken Cordon Bleu may require pounding chicken thin, stuffing, rolling, and breading, this bake-friendly adaptation skips the labor-intensive steps. Instead, it combines shredded chicken, ham, turkey bacon, and three kinds of cheese in a creamy Dijon sauce, then tops it all with crispy panko breadcrumbs. The result is a dish that’s creamy, crunchy, and deeply flavorful — without all the fuss.

Casseroles like this one have evolved into a beloved weeknight solution, especially for families juggling busy schedules. According to the Wikipedia page on casseroles, this type of dish became popular in the mid-20th century, offering a way to combine proteins, starches, and sauces into one convenient bake. Today’s versions, like this Cordon Bleu-inspired meal, are tailored to modern palates while maintaining that same spirit of simplicity and heartiness.

For visual inspiration and creative twists, browse these chicken casserole ideas on Pinterest to see how other home cooks have made this classic their own.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

A well-balanced Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole begins with carefully selected ingredients that complement one another in both flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:

Protein Components:
- Cooked chicken breast (4 cups) – Choose shredded or cubed for even texture throughout.
- Cooked chicken ham (1 cup) – Adds salty, savory depth. Can be substituted with smoked turkey or Canadian bacon.
- Turkey bacon (1 cup) – Introduces smokiness without the fat of traditional pork bacon.
Cheese Trio:
- Swiss cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The classic pairing with ham, offering a creamy, nutty melt.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded) – Adds stretch and extra cheesiness.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated) – Finishes the top with a salty, golden crust.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Butter and flour – Together form a roux, essential for a velvety texture.
- Milk (2 cups) – Full-fat is best for richness.
- Dijon mustard (1 tbsp) – Provides a tangy bite that cuts through the richness.
- Garlic powder, salt, pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance flavor.
Crispy Topping:
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Lighter and crunchier than traditional breadcrumbs.
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Helps breadcrumbs brown beautifully.
- Paprika (1/4 tsp) – Adds mild heat and color.

Each of these ingredients plays a role in replicating the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu experience in casserole form. If you’re curious about the role of each cheese in baking, this overview breaks down different melting properties and flavor profiles.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Follow these clear steps to assemble the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:

Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 4 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, ½ tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Main Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix 4 cups shredded chicken, 1 cup diced chicken ham, 1 cup chopped turkey bacon, and 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese.
- Pour in the sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour in the chicken mixture and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, and ¼ tsp paprika.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Place in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.
Rest & Serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

This recipe is perfect for freezing, too. For more inspiration on freezer-friendly casseroles, check out this Pinterest board.

Tips for Success and Variations

To make the most of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake, consider the following pro tips and swaps:

Time-Saving Hacks:
- Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down prep time.
- Pre-shredded cheese works well, but grating your own improves melt quality.
Ingredient Swaps:
- Try Gruyère instead of Swiss for a more pronounced flavor.
- Use smoked turkey in place of ham for a leaner protein.
- For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meats with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ham.
Diet-Friendly Tweaks:
- For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a GF blend and use GF breadcrumbs.
- Make it lower in fat by using reduced-fat cheese and skim milk.

Need more family dinner ideas that are both healthy and satisfying? Take a look at easy family dinners that even picky eaters will love.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This dish is versatile enough to serve for any occasion — from weeknight dinners to casual get-togethers. Here are some ideas for what to pair it with:

Classic Side Dishes:
- Roasted or steamed green beans
- Mashed or roasted potatoes
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Fresh Additions:
- Garden salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
Presentation Tips:
- Serve directly from the baking dish for casual dinners
- Use a serving spoon to scoop portions, ensuring a balance of crispy topping and creamy filling

If you’re a fan of freezer meals, this casserole also doubles well. Simply assemble ahead of time and freeze before baking. For more make-ahead dinner inspiration, browse this Pinterest collection.

Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Instructions

Proper storage ensures your casserole tastes just as good the next day:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole (uncooked) in a foil tray, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Use 50% power to avoid drying out the cheese and sauce.

Always allow frozen casseroles to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. For more meal prep ideas, explore Pinterest boards filled with budget-friendly family meals.

Section 8: Nutritional Breakdown & Healthier Alternatives

Here’s a general nutritional estimate per serving (1 of 6 portions):

Calories: ~450–550
Protein: 35g+
Carbs: 20–25g
Fat: 25–30g

Healthier swaps include:

Skim milk instead of whole milk
Low-fat cheese varieties
Lean turkey or vegetarian ham in place of traditional options
Gluten-free breadcrumbs for dietary needs

Understanding how different cheese types affect fat and sodium levels can also help you choose better alternatives. For more insight, visit this guide to cheese.

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor. Leftover turkey is also a great seasonal option.

What can I use instead of ham in this casserole?
Try smoked turkey, Canadian bacon, or vegetarian deli slices for similar texture and flavor.

How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?
Make sure meats are well-drained and pat dry. Also, thicken the sauce properly using a roux, as explained in this Wikipedia article on roux.

Can I use cream cheese in the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute part of the milk with cream cheese for extra creaminess and a slight tang. Just whisk it in after removing the roux from heat.

The Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: Easy, Cheesy, and Family-Approved

Author: The Coozy Plate

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings together tender chicken, savory ham, crispy turkey bacon, and melted cheese in a creamy Dijon sauce — all baked under a golden, crunchy topping. It’s the perfect fusion of comfort and convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

For the casserole:

4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed

1 cup cooked chicken ham, diced

1 cup cooked turkey bacon, chopped

2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the sauce:

4 tablespoons butter

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Cook until thickened, then stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, chicken ham, turkey bacon, and Swiss cheese.

Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Notes

Prep ahead for freezer-friendly meals
Swap cheeses or meats to match your family’s preferences
Let casserole sit 5–10 minutes after baking for best texture
For extra flavor, add a pinch of thyme or rosemary to the sauce

The Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: Easy, Cheesy, and Family-Approved

Elina Delights