If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines creamy textures, savory flavors, and a crispy topping, the Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes the classic chicken cordon bleu to a whole new level by layering tender cooked chicken, savory ham, and Swiss cheese, all baked under a buttery cornbread stuffing that adds the perfect crunch. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when friends and family come over. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is what makes this casserole so accessible, yet every item plays a vital role in delivering those rich flavors and inviting textures that make this dish unforgettable.
- 1½-lb chopped cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that makes this casserole satisfying and filling.
- ½-lb diced ham: Adds that classic salty, smoky punch reminiscent of traditional cordon bleu.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, bringing creamy, nutty notes to the dish.
- 1 cup sour cream: Offers a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese and ham.
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup: Provides a luscious sauce that keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
- ½ tsp onion powder: For subtle sweetness and depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- ¾ tsp garlic powder: Brings warmth and a mild savory kick to the creamy mixture.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances and rounds out all the flavors evenly.
- 1 (6-oz) box cornbread stuffing, uncooked: Creates a delightfully crunchy, golden crust that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps moisten the stuffing, infusing it with rich, savory notes as it bakes.
- 4 Tbsp melted butter: Adds buttery richness and helps the topping brown perfectly.
How to Make Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures it’s hot and ready to go once the casserole is assembled. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks and your casserole releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Layer the chicken, ham, and cheese
Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Next, distribute the diced ham over the chicken, followed by an even layer of shredded Swiss cheese. This layering packs pockets of flavor across every bite.
Step 3: Mix and spread the creamy sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Carefully spread this luscious mixture over the layered chicken, ham, and cheese, making sure the layer is even to keep everything moist as it bakes.
Step 4: Add the stuffing and broth topping
Sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing evenly over the sauce layer. Then combine the chicken broth with the melted butter and pour it evenly over the stuffing. This little trick ensures your topping bakes up crisp, buttery, and perfectly golden brown.
Step 5: Bake until bubbly and golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling and the stuffing topping is beautifully browned, enticing you with crispy, buttery goodness.
How to Serve Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add a lovely pop of green and a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top also enhances each bite and looks great too.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is so filling, pair it with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. Roasted carrots or a simple cucumber salad will round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small oven-safe dishes. You could also layer it in clear glass dishes to showcase the lovely layers of chicken, ham, and cheese with the golden topping. This recipe is flexible enough to work for casual family dinners or a cozy dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, assemble it fully but don’t bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes if needed.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and the topping crisps back up. You can also microwave leftovers, but the oven method keeps the texture perfect and the topping crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss cheese adds a classic flavor, but Gruyère, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar can be delicious substitutes. Just choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other ingredients.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe uses traditional cornbread stuffing which typically contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free stuffing mix to make the entire dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken and ham for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, and use a vegetable-based cream soup. The cheese and sour cream will still provide lovely richness.
How spicy is the Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
This casserole is mild and comforting with no spicy heat, making it perfect for all ages and taste buds. You can add a pinch of cayenne or paprika if you want a subtle kick.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a larger baking dish works well. Just keep an eye on baking time, as a deeper casserole may need an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven to cook through and brown nicely.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe enough if you want a warm, satisfying meal that feels both nostalgic and special. It’s a wonderful blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy all in one dish. Whether for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners with loved ones, this casserole will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and get ready for lots of happy, full bellies!
Print
Yum Yum Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and delicious casserole combining tender chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese, topped with a creamy sour cream and chicken soup mixture, finished with a crunchy cornbread stuffing crust. Perfect for a hearty family meal in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1½ lb chopped cooked chicken
- ½ lb diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Dairy & Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 Tbsp melted butter
Seasonings
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 (6-oz) box cornbread stuffing (uncooked, Stove Top or Pepperidge Farm)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help with cleanup.
- Layer the main ingredients: Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the diced ham over the chicken and top with the shredded Swiss cheese, creating a hearty base layer.
- Mix and spread the creamy topping: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the layered chicken, ham, and cheese in the baking dish.
- Add the stuffing and broth mixture: Sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing evenly over the sour cream mixture. In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth and melted butter, stirring gently. Pour this liquid mixture evenly over the top of the stuffing layer to ensure it bakes up crispy and moist.
- Bake and serve: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Remove from oven and let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and makes this recipe quick to assemble.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Substitute turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken if desired.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
