Name: Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced; 3 tbsp flour; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 1/2 cups milk (skim, whole, or plant-based); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp chicken or vegetable stock/bouillon powder; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); 4 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced; 2 cups diced ham (smoked, honey-glazed, or leftover ham); 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (or substitute with Emmental, Jarlsberg, or mild cheddar); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp melted butter

If you’re searching for a fast, delightful, and comforting meal, look no further than the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. This dish uniquely combines the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with a straightforward casserole format, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or when you’re craving something decadent yet easy. Think about tender chicken, succulent ham, crisp broccoli, and melted Swiss cheese all enveloped in a creamy Dijon sauce. Rather than spending time rolling and stuffing individual chicken breasts, this recipe simplifies the process while retaining all the flavors we adore.

What’s more, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can prepare it in advance for hectic weeknights, making it a perfect make-ahead option to save time without sacrificing taste. With this recipe, you can modify it to your preference—switching out cheeses or adding extra veggies is a breeze! Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, which is a bonus for meal prep enthusiasts. Serve up this comforting casserole at your next gathering, and watch how quickly it disappears!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Simple yet sophisticated: The elegant flavors of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, now in a hassle-free casserole.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare today, bake tomorrow—it’s that easy!
Customizable: Feel free to swap out cheeses or mix in your favorite vegetables to find your ideal combination.
Freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or quick dinners on busy nights.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by clearing your counter space and making sure all your ingredients are within reach. Having everything organized will make cooking more enjoyable and straightforward. You’ll need a large mixing bowl for the creamy sauce, a saucepan for simmering it, and a casserole dish that can go directly into the oven.

To ensure the best results, consider using a food processor or knife for chopping the vegetables and a whisk for mixing the sauce smoothly. A baking sheet can come in handy to catch any spills, and having measuring cups and spoons ready will save you from scrambling during prep. Lastly, don’t forget to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) as you prep the ingredients to save time.

Ingredients

3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
3 tbsp flour
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups milk (skim, whole, or plant-based)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp chicken or vegetable stock/bouillon powder
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
4 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups diced ham (smoked, honey-glazed, or leftover ham)
2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (or substitute with Emmental, Jarlsberg, or mild cheddar)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dijon Cream Sauce

Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the grated or minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, careful not to burn it. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the flour, cooking it for one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, mixing until the sauce is smooth. Stir in the Dijon mustard, stock powder, and Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper, and add parsley if you wish.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Fill a pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Blanch the fresh broccoli florets for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn crisp-tender, then drain them. Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a greased casserole dish, start layering by placing the shredded chicken at the bottom. Next, add the blanched broccoli and diced ham evenly over the chicken. Progress by pouring the creamy Dijon sauce all over the mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Finally, sprinkle the top with shredded Swiss cheese and an additional layer of Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Add the Topping

To finish off this delectable casserole, prepare the topping by mixing the Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of your casserole, providing a golden, crispy finish when baked.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and allow it to bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a bubbling effect and a golden-brown topping. Once it reaches this perfect color and texture, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This waiting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve.

Variations

Protein: Feel free to substitute the ham with crispy bacon for a smokier flavor.
Vegetables: Add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Incorporate spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika to elevate the taste of the creamy sauce.

Cooking Notes

For an extra hearty casserole, feel free to add more chicken or ham as preferred.
If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be your best friend—simple, quick, and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a light garden salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
A side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks complements the creamy casserole perfectly.

Tips

Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting—it will stay together better and be easier to serve.
If you plan to freeze this dish, consider assembling it without baking, and cover tightly for future use.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with your favorites like Cheddar or Monterey Jack, or even experiment with a mix for added flavor.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use vegetables other than broccoli?

Yes! You can incorporate a variety of vegetables, such as cauliflower or green beans, to suit your preferences.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking, making it a great meal prep option.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is an easy yet sophisticated way to enjoy a classic dish without all the hassle. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a hectic weeknight meal, a potluck, or a special occasion, this casserole delivers comfort food at its finest. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients as you carve out your unique taste in this dish. If you love this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments, and feel free to spread the love by sharing it with friends and family. Give it a try, and enjoy each mouthful of this delectable meal!