Growing up in a house that always smelled like butter and love, I learned early on that the best meals weren’t just about food. They were about the hands that made them and the stories they told. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole isn’t just a recipe—it’s a memory stitched together with flavor, tradition, and a whole lot of heart.
I still remember the first time Mama Lou made something like this. She didn’t call it by any fancy name—just “chicken with the good stuff,” as my sister Ouma used to say while sneaking a piece of ham from the counter. The original had more steps and involved careful rolling, but over time, our version became simpler, more comforting, and just right for those busy evenings when you need dinner to hug you back.
“The best dishes are born from love, leftovers, and a little kitchen creativity.”—Mama Lou
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This casserole hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, hearty, and easy to put together. It’s everything you want after a long day—the kind of dish that makes everyone around the table close their eyes at the first bite.
- Simple prep—just mix, layer, and bake.
- Uses leftovers—a great way to use that rotisserie chicken or Sunday roast.
- Kid-approved—ham and cheese never fail.
- Comfort food with roots—a dish with a story, not just a recipe.
Ingredients and Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cooked chicken | 6 cups (about 2 lb) |
| Ham, cut into bite-size pieces | 6 oz |
| Butter, melted | 4 oz |
| Cream cheese, softened | 6 oz |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| White wine (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 oz |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Swiss cheese | 5 oz |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish—this is where the magic happens.
- Make the creamy base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, white wine (if using), lemon juice, and salt. Stir until smooth and velvety. This mix always reminds me of Mama Lou’s saucepan bubbling with secrets.
- Add the chicken and ham. Gently fold in the shredded chicken and ham, making sure every piece is coated with that luscious sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
- Top with Swiss cheese. Sprinkle the cheese generously across the top. Ouma and I used to fight over the corners where the cheese would get golden and crispy.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly. The top should be just beginning to brown, and the edges should whisper that dinner is ready.
- Rest before serving. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This gives it time to settle and makes for perfect slices.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 36g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
Chef’s Note
There’s something sacred about recipes that carry a piece of home. This casserole holds more than just chicken and cheese—it holds stories. Every time I pull it from the oven, I hear Mama Lou humming in the background and see Ouma dancing around the kitchen barefoot. It’s a dish that makes you feel remembered, even if no one says a word.
“Food isn’t just nourishment—it’s the love we pass down on a plate.” —Chef Sofia
Serving Suggestions: Making It a Meal
When I serve this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, I like to keep the sides simple and fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also make excellent companions, adding a touch of color and a healthy crunch to the plate.
“A meal shared is a memory made. Gather around, share stories, and let the flavors bring you closer.” —Chef Sofia
Perfect Drink Pairings
To complement the creamy and savory notes of the casserole, consider serving it with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea can cleanse the palate and enhance the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this casserole are a blessing. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
“Some dishes taste even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld and deepen.” —Mama Lou
Personal Anecdote: A Family Favorite
This casserole has become a staple at our family gatherings. I recall one Sunday dinner when Ouma decided to add a sprinkle of crushed crackers on top for an extra crunch. It was an instant hit, and now it’s a must-have addition every time we make it. These little tweaks and shared experiences are what make cooking so special.
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Comfort in Every Bite
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 lb)
- 6 oz ham, cut into bite-size pieces
- 5 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
Sauce
- 4 oz butter, melted
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine (optional)
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, white wine (if using), lemon juice, and salt. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
- Combine chicken and ham: Add the shredded chicken and diced ham into the sauce, stirring until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the chicken and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Explore More Comforting Recipes
If you’re in the mood for more hearty and satisfying meals, be sure to check out our collection of pasta casseroles. From classic baked ziti to innovative twists on mac and cheese, there’s something for every palate.
