This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting and family-friendly twist on the classic dish. Instead of rolling and breading individual chicken breasts, everything is layered into one casserole dish with tender chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon sauce. Finished with a golden panko topping, it’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special family meals.
5 cups shredded cooked chicken
9 oz deli-style Black Forest ham, sliced and cut into strips (about 9 slices)
8 oz Swiss cheese, thinly sliced (about 12 slices)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Layer the ham strips evenly over the chicken.
Place the Swiss cheese slices evenly on top of the ham, overlapping as needed.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until a thick paste forms.
Slowly add the milk, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking well after each addition until smooth.
Continue cooking and whisking occasionally for about 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Pour the sauce evenly over the cheese layer, spreading it into all corners of the dish.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with softened butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Don’t rush the sauce—adding the milk slowly prevents lumps.
Let it rest before serving so the sauce thickens properly.
For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely).
Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.