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Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole - featured image

This easy casserole brings all the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu—creamy cheese sauce, savory ham, and juicy chicken—into a comforting, crowd-pleasing bake with a golden, crispy panko topping. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or special occasions, it’s a fuss-free twist on a nostalgic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 14 oz)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 7 oz deli ham, sliced and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère/Emmental)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss shredded chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Scatter chopped ham evenly over the chicken layer and press lightly.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened and gently simmering.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in Swiss cheese, mozzarella, Dijon mustard, nutmeg (if using), and salt & pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  7. Pour hot cheese sauce evenly over chicken and ham layers. Spread with a spatula if needed.
  8. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and vegan cheeses. Make ahead by assembling without topping and refrigerating up to 24 hours. Add topping just before baking. For extra crunch when reheating, sprinkle fresh panko on top. Use freshly shredded cheese for best sauce texture. If sauce is too thick, whisk in a splash of milk. Casserole can be frozen (without topping) for up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken cordon bleu casserole, easy casserole, creamy cheese bake, comfort food, family dinner, weeknight meal, potluck recipe, chicken and ham casserole