If you adore the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu but crave a cozy, all-in-one meal, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and savory turkey, it transforms the traditional layered dish into a warm, comforting casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Each bite delivers that beloved blend of Swiss cheese, rich cream sauce, and a satisfying crunchy breadcrumb topping, making it irresistibly delicious and incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this casserole. Each component plays a role from adding creaminess and savory depth to providing that irresistible crispy topping.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides the hearty base and tender protein that makes this casserole so satisfying.
- 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken slices, chopped: Adds extra flavor and that traditional deli-meat touch reminiscent of classic cordon bleu.
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to bring a nutty, creamy richness central to the dish’s signature taste.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy crust that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Acts as a luscious binder, adding moisture and flavor throughout the casserole.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that lifts the dish and balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease a baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. This preliminary step sets the stage for a stress-free cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and chopped turkey or chicken slices with shredded Swiss cheese and the Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed—this creates the flavorful base of your casserole that’s rich and cheesy with a slight zing from the mustard.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cream of Chicken Soup and Seasoning
Add the cream of chicken soup into the bowl and season the mixture well with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the components meld into a creamy, flavorful filling that will be both comforting and satisfying once baked.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the entire chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Once smooth, sprinkle the breadcrumbs across the top. This final layer will bake into a golden, crispy crust, providing a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the breadcrumbs have turned a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole bubbles at the edges, signaling a hot, delicious meal just waiting to be enjoyed.
Step 6: Cool Slightly, Then Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to serve. This waiting moment also lets the flavors meld even more, resulting in each bite tasting even better than the last.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe presentation, try adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or chives. These herbs add a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant note that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides such as steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or buttery garlic mashed potatoes. These sides help balance the indulgence of the casserole with lightness and texture variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in muffin tins for personal servings. Not only does this look charming, but it’s perfect for parties or packed lunches where a convenient, elegant serving is appreciated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for enjoying next-day lunches or quick dinners without any compromise in flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It will stay deliciously fresh for up to 2 months, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to keep it moist, removing the foil near the end to refresh the breadcrumb topping’s crunchiness.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives the classic flavor, Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be substituted to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Each will impact the flavor slightly but keep the melty, cheesy goodness.
Is it necessary to use both chicken and turkey in the recipe?
Not at all. The recipe calls for both to mimic the cordon bleu style, but you can use all chicken or even all turkey depending on your preference or availability. The important part is that the meat is cooked and shredded or chopped.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Double-check the cream of chicken soup to ensure it’s gluten-free, or make a homemade version to stay safe.
What is the best way to shred cooked chicken for this casserole?
Using two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken works perfectly. You can also shred it in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for an even faster, uniform texture, perfect for mixing evenly into the casserole.
Can I prepare this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready, bake it fresh the next day. This makes busy weeknights much easier without sacrificing homemade flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It takes beloved classic flavors and makes them accessible, simple, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. If you’re looking for a deliciously cheesy, creamy dinner that’s quick to whip up and delights every time, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish combining shredded chicken, turkey slices, Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty family meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken slices, chopped
Dairy
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
Other
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 can (about 10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, chopped turkey or chicken slices, shredded Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Add Soup and Season: Add the cream of chicken soup to the mixture and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the combined chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly spread the breadcrumbs across the top to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges, indicating it is heated through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy a creamy, cheesy, comforting meal!
Notes
- Use cooked leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Swiss cheese can be substituted with Gruyère or mozzarella for variation.
- Breadcrumbs can be mixed with a little melted butter for an extra crispy topping.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
