Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Introduction
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic French-inspired dish, transforming an elegant restaurant favorite into a cozy, family-friendly bake. With tender chunks of chicken, savory diced ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with a crispy golden crust, this casserole delivers all the signature flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu—without the hassle of rolling and breading each piece. It’s comfort food that feels refined yet approachable, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients & Quantities
Servings: 6
4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
8 oz. ham, diced
2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
1 ½ cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
3. Flavor the Sauce
Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once thick, add 1 ½ cups Swiss cheese and stir until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken and diced ham. Pour the creamy sauce over and mix to coat evenly.
5. Layer and Top
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Swiss cheese evenly on top.
6. Add the Crust
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil (or melted butter). Sprinkle this mixture over the top for a crisp finish.
7. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
8. Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chicken Cordon Bleu traces its roots to Swiss cuisine, with “Cordon Bleu” meaning “Blue Ribbon” in French—a symbol of culinary excellence. The traditional dish features chicken stuffed with ham and cheese, breaded, and fried or baked. This casserole adaptation likely emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, when home cooks sought to simplify gourmet dishes into one-pan meals. It represents the American tradition of comfort food innovation—where international flavors meet everyday practicality.
Description
This casserole embodies all the beloved qualities of the original Chicken Cordon Bleu—juicy chicken, smoky ham, and creamy Swiss cheese sauce—wrapped in a warm, bubbly bake. Each bite balances savory richness with a subtle tang from Dijon mustard and a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping. It’s hearty yet elegant, with a nostalgic charm that makes it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions.
Optional Additions
Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli or asparagus for a colorful, balanced twist.
Cheese Varieties: Substitute Swiss with Gruyère, Provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavor notes.
Breadcrumb Variation: Use crushed Ritz crackers or panko for extra crunch.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Tips for Success
Use freshly cooked chicken (grilled or roasted) for maximum flavor.
Avoid over-thickening the sauce; it should be pourable and smooth.
Let the casserole rest before serving—this helps it set and makes slicing easier.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 820mg
(Values vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers the perfect blend of classic flavor and modern convenience. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks—rich, comforting, and impressive without being complicated. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this casserole is delightfully creamy and decadent, it can easily fit into a balanced lifestyle. Portion mindfully, pair it with fresh produce, and savor each bite. Healthful indulgence means celebrating good food that nourishes both body and soul—and this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole does exactly that.