This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings together delicious chicken, ham, and gooey cheese in a comforting dish. It’s the perfect mix of flavors and super easy to make!
Who doesn’t love digging into something cheesy and hearty? I have a little secret: I sometimes add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for some extra goodness! 😋
This casserole is great for feeding a crowd and making ahead. Just pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll have a warm, tasty meal everyone will love!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are key for that comforting texture. You can switch to any pasta type, like rotini or penne, if you have them on hand. Just cook them until slightly firm before adding to the casserole.
Chicken: I prefer rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease. Leftover chicken or turkey works great too. Just shred or dice it before mixing.
Ham: Diced ham adds a salty depth. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey or chicken deli meat can be a great substitute. You can even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
Swiss Cheese: I love Swiss for its meltiness and flavor. If you can’t find it, use mozzarella for a milder taste or cheddar for more sharpness. Mix different cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a lighter version, you could blend some chicken broth with a bit of flour and seasoning. Or use a cream of mushroom soup for a twist!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream if you want a healthier option. It gives a similar tangy flavor and creaminess.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
Mixing the right creamy ingredients is crucial to avoid a dry casserole. The combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream provides moisture. Keep the ratios in mind when following the recipe.
- Make sure to coat everything well with the soup mixture before baking. Every noodle and meat piece should have that creamy goodness!
- If you find your casserole looks a bit dry before baking, add a splash more milk and mix well.
- After baking, let it rest. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the casserole moist.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
For The Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Topping:
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 45-50 minutes to have a delicious meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded Swiss cheese. Stir everything together gently until it’s well mixed. This will be the hearty base of your casserole.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In another bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is nicely combined and smooth. This mixture will add creaminess to your casserole.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, pour the creamy soup mixture over the noodle and meat mixture. Stir it all together, making sure everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. It’s time to bring it all together!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish so that it cooks properly.
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Swiss cheese on top of the casserole. Then, top it off with the French fried onions to add a delightful crunch. It’s time to get baking!
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole hot and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute with provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that stronger cheeses may alter the overall taste of the casserole.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream sauce made with butter, flour, and chicken broth or use a mushroom soup for a different flavor. Just ensure whatever you choose has a creamy consistency for best results!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it fully, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore creaminess.
