Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that turns the classic stuffed chicken into a warm, cheesy bake. It blends tender chicken, ham, and melty Swiss cheese all layered with a crispy topping that adds the perfect crunch. This casserole feels like a hug on a plate, combining all those favorite flavors in one easy meal.
I love making this casserole when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen. The layers of chicken and ham soaked in a creamy sauce with melted cheese make it a family favorite — everyone always asks for seconds. I usually add a little breadcrumb topping to give it a nice golden finish, which really makes it pop.
One of my favorite ways to serve it is alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out all the richness. It’s the kind of dinner that’s perfect for a cozy night at home, and leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day. If you like creamy, cheesy dishes with a bit of a crispy edge, this casserole will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works best for lean protein. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken to save time.
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds that classic Cordon Bleu flavor. If you prefer, try turkey ham or omit for a lighter version.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese brings a mild, nutty taste and melts well. Gruyère is a great substitute if you want a richer flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunchy topping. Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work too but may be less crispy.
How Do You Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce Just Right?
The cheese sauce binds everything together and should be smooth and thick without lumps.
- Melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook 1-2 mins to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Cook until sauce thickens, stirring often, about 4-5 mins.
- Remove from heat before adding cheese—adding it too early can make sauce grainy.
- Stir cheese until fully melted for a smooth and creamy sauce.
Patience here makes a big difference and keeps your casserole perfectly creamy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – I like this size for even baking and easy serving.
- Medium saucepan – helps you make the cheese sauce smoothly on the stove.
- Whisk – essential for stirring the sauce without lumps.
- Cooking pots for pasta and chicken – I prefer using separate pots to keep everything organized.
- Baking spoon or spatula – for mixing ingredients and spreading the casserole evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
- Small bowl – for mixing breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try cooked turkey or ham instead of chicken and regular ham for a different flavor twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost veggies and flavor.
- Use Swiss cheese mixed with a little Gruyère or cheddar for more richness.
- Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or chopped herbs like thyme or parsley for extra taste.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1 1/2 cups cooked pasta (such as shell or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 25 to 30 minutes to bake. Allow a few minutes to let it rest before serving. Total time is about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Preheat:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish so your casserole won’t stick later.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil your pasta following the package instructions until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain the water and set the pasta aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and keep whisking for 1 to 2 minutes to cook away the floury taste. Slowly add the milk while stirring constantly so there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the Swiss and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, diced ham, pasta, and cheese sauce. Stir everything together so the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle this evenly over the top.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it rest a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Now, scoop out your creamy and cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the cold water method, but cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Substitute the Pasta With Something Else?
Absolutely. You can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even egg noodles. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower florets or spiralized zucchini, but adjust cooking times to avoid extra moisture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep the topping crunchy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
