There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings together classic flavors in a fresh, easy-to-love way. The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe perfectly captures the essence of the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, but with less fuss and more delicious layers of turkey, Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cranking out a cozy family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to pulling off this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe with ease. Every component plays a vital role—from the shredded chicken bringing hearty protein to the tangy Dijon mustard in the sauce that brightens up the creamy base.
- Shredded cooked chicken (5 cups): Provides the tender, juicy foundation of the casserole.
- Sliced turkey breast (9 oz), cut into strips: Adds savory depth and pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Sliced Swiss cheese (8 oz): Brings that signature nuttiness and gooey melt.
- Unsalted butter (6 tbsp for sauce, 4 tbsp for topping): Essential for richness and creating the luscious sauce and crisp topping.
- Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Gives the sauce a subtle tang and complexity.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp, optional): Lifts the flavors with a bright, zesty note.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses a savory aroma that complements the meats.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances every flavor in the dish.
- Nutmeg (¼ tsp, optional): Adds a warm and slightly sweet undertone.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp, optional): Provides a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
- All-purpose flour (6 tbsp): The thickening agent that turns the sauce beautifully creamy.
- Whole milk (3 cups): Creates the silky base of the casserole sauce.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 ½ cups): For a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, green garnish to finish the dish with elegance.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Casserole Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly—this simple step ensures your cheesy delight won’t stick and serves as the perfect foundation for layering all those luscious ingredients.
Step 2: Layer the Meat and Cheese
Spread the shredded cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of your greased dish. On top of that, evenly distribute the turkey breast strips, ensuring each bite gets a taste of its smoky goodness. Next, layer the Swiss cheese slices like a blanket of melty goodness that promises indulgence in every forkful.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then whisk in the Dijon mustard and optional lemon juice for brightness. Add garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper to build layers of flavor. Stir in the flour and pour in the whole milk gradually, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep simmering until this sauce thickens into a rich, velvety coating destined to tie the casserole together beautifully.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Layers
With your luscious sauce ready, pour it evenly over the layered chicken, turkey, and Swiss cheese in your casserole dish. This creamy hug will seep into every nook, marrying all the flavors and promising an irresistible texture once baked.
Step 5: Add a Crispy Topping and Bake
Mix the softened butter with the Panko breadcrumbs to make a golden, crunchy topping. Sprinkle this generously over the sauce-covered casserole. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the topping is bubbly and beautifully browned. If you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle chopped parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Though the casserole is a showstopper on its own, garnishing with fresh parsley instantly lifts the dish visually and adds a delicate herbaceous note that cuts through the richness, making each bite fresher and lighter.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp green salads or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the creamy richness. A side of garlic mashed potatoes or a warm dinner roll can turn your meal into a complete, satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of the casserole in ramekins and sprinkle with extra crisp Panko topping right before serving. You could even add a drizzle of honey mustard sauce on the side for guests who want an extra burst of tangy sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to three days, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners when you’re pressed for time.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe before baking. Assemble it completely, cover tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until hot or place in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered, until bubbly again. You can uncover the last few minutes for that irresistible crispy topping to re-crisp beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives this dish its classic flavor, you can substitute with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist. Just make sure to pick a cheese that melts well to maintain that creamy texture.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken, or can I use raw pieces?
Using cooked chicken is highly recommended because it shreds easily and bakes perfectly without turning dry. If you prefer to use raw chicken, you’ll need to cook it thoroughly before assembling to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter and milk with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like plant-based margarine and almond milk. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the casserole suitable for gluten sensitivities.
What makes the sauce so creamy and flavorful in this recipe?
The magic lies in the butter-flour roux combined with mustard, seasoning, and milk, which thickens into a smooth, flavorful sauce that binds all the ingredients. The optional lemon juice and nutmeg add depth without overpowering the dish.
How can I add more vegetables to the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
Feel free to toss in cooked broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach right before you add the sauce. These vegetables add color, nutrients, and an extra dimension of flavor that complements the classic elements beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe enough for anyone who loves a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both impressive and intuitive to make. It’s a cozy, cheesy embrace on a plate that brings all the best flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with a convenience that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Give it a try—I promise it’ll become a fast favorite on your recipe rotation!
PrintChicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish combining shredded chicken, turkey breast strips, and Swiss cheese, enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce and topped with buttery Panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it offers all the classic cordon bleu flavors in a convenient casserole form.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Casserole:
- 5 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 9 oz sliced turkey breast, cut into strips
- 8 oz sliced Swiss cheese
For the Sauce:
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Layer the Casserole: Begin by spreading the shredded cooked chicken evenly in the casserole dish. Next, layer the turkey breast strips over the chicken, and then top with the slices of Swiss cheese, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, optional lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper until combined. Gradually whisk in the flour to make a roux, then slowly add the whole milk while whisking continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Pour the completed sauce evenly over the layered casserole to bind the ingredients together.
- Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with the softened butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a crunchy, golden crust upon baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. Once baked, optionally garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover roasted chicken for ease and flavor.
- Lemon juice in the sauce adds a subtle brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute whole milk with 2% or skim milk and reduce butter slightly.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier topping than regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure all layers are evenly distributed for balanced flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.