Comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a fantastic way to bring the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into a simpler, fuss-free meal. It combines tender chicken, savory ham, sweet peas, and a creamy mustard sauce all topped with a blend of melted cheeses. It’s one of those casseroles that feels special but comes together quickly on a busy weeknight.

I came up with this recipe when craving that iconic dish without spending hours breading and frying. It quickly became a family favorite on cold evenings.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts: for juicy tender chicken pieces
• 4 ounces sliced deli ham: adds a smoky, salty layer that pairs perfectly with the chicken
• 1 cup frozen green peas: for a pop of color and a natural sweetness
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: for melty mild nuttiness
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: to bring sharpness and depth
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: adds a salty finish on top
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: creates a rich and silky base for the sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: for tangy brightness that lifts every bite
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: for a gentle heat
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt: enhances all flavors without overwhelming

Instructions

Cook Chicken:

Cut the chicken breasts into half-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Heat a large pan over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until they are completely cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to an 8 by 8 inch baking dish. Leave any cooking juices behind in the pan as they are not needed.

Make Sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt. Stir gently and bring just to a simmer but do not boil. Remove from heat immediately once it starts simmering to keep a silky texture. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the saucepan to get every bit of the creamy sauce into the dish.

Assemble Casserole:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the deli ham into half-inch strips. Pat the ham dry using paper towels if it feels damp to avoid excess moisture. Add the ham strips into the baking dish over the chicken. Sprinkle the frozen green peas evenly on top. Layer the shredded Swiss cheese over the peas and ham. Using a spoon, gently stir everything directly in the baking dish until the ingredients are well mixed. Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and finish by sprinkling the finely grated Parmesan cheese over everything.

Bake:

Place the baking dish uncovered in your preheated oven. Bake until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbling and starts to brown slightly on top. This usually takes about 30 minutes. After baking, allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting it into four equal portions to serve.

The Dijon mustard is my favorite part because it adds just the right tang to brighten the creamy sauce. This dish reminds me of cozy weekends cooking with my family where everyone loved the gooey cheese and savory ham mix.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through to keep the cheese from drying out. This casserole also freezes well in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient swaps

If you want a lighter version, substitute half and half or whole milk for heavy cream but expect a slightly thinner sauce. You can swap out Swiss cheese for mozzarella or Gruyere for different flavor profiles. Use smoked ham for a deeper smoky note or even cooked bacon bits for a twist.

Serving ideas

Serve this casserole with a fresh green side salad to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce. A simple side of steamed carrots or green beans complements the peas and cheese beautifully.

This casserole brings the spirit of Chicken Cordon Bleu to your table in a comforting and easy-to-make form.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other cheeses in this dish?

Yes, while Swiss, cheddar, and Parmesan provide a balanced flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella or Gruyère for different melt and taste profiles.

→ Is it necessary to cook the chicken before baking?

Pre-cooking the chicken ensures it is fully cooked and tender, preventing dryness during baking.

→ What can I use instead of frozen green peas?

Fresh peas or green beans can be substituted, though cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use reduced-fat cheeses to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.

→ What is the best way to add texture on top?

Sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter before baking adds a delightful crunchy topping.