If you have a soft spot for classic chicken cordon bleu but want a healthier, fuss-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’re going to adore this Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe. It takes all the best parts of the traditional dish—tender chicken, layers of ham and Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce—and transforms them into a cozy, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. This casserole is so satisfying and surprisingly light, making it a favorite I return to again and again, guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and appearance. From the lean chicken breasts for protein, to the creamy soup and cheese bringing comfort, every element works harmoniously.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast: The lean base of the dish, sliced and lightly browned for flavor and juiciness.
- 1 can fat free cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy richness without extra fat.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps create a silky, smooth sauce when blended with the soup.
- 6 slices deli ham (divided): Provides savory layers and a tender, smoky bite.
- 6 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness that ties the dish together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used both for browning chicken and crisping the breadcrumb topping.
- 1 cup bread crumbs: Creates a crispy, golden crust that adds wonderful texture contrast.
- Chicken seasoning (2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper): Infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor and depth.
- Sauce seasoning (1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp Italian blend seasoning, pinch of salt & pepper): Elevates the creamy sauce with aromatic, herbal notes.
How to Make Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Slice the chicken breasts into even pieces and season liberally on both sides with the chicken seasoning mix—paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken slices for about one minute per side. This quick sear locks in moisture and adds a lovely caramelized flavor that makes all the difference in the final dish.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken in the Casserole Dish
Once browned, remove the chicken pieces from the heat and arrange them evenly in the bottom of your casserole dish. This will become the hearty foundation for layering the ham, cheese, and sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the fat free cream of chicken soup, milk, and all the sauce seasonings: paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully combined and warmed through. This sauce brings a luscious creaminess without heaviness—perfect for the Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Build the Casserole Layers
Pour half of the warmed sauce evenly over the chicken layer. Next, add half the slices of deli ham followed by half the Swiss cheese. Repeat these layers by adding the remaining sauce, then the rest of the ham and cheese. This layering technique ensures every bite is bursting with balanced flavors.
Step 5: Top with Crunchy Breadcrumb Mixture
Combine the olive oil, bread crumbs, and any reserved ham pieces in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This step is key to adding a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling beneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled casserole in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and you see the sauce bubbling around the edges. This signals the dish is piping hot and ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding just a few simple garnishes can really elevate your casserole presentation. Fresh chopped parsley or chives add a pop of vibrant green and freshness. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor, and a few lemon wedges on the side provide a wonderful brightness if you want to cut through the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines best when paired with fresh and light sides that complement its richness. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans tossed with a squeeze of lemon, or a medley of roasted root vegetables. These sides bring balance and keep the meal satisfying but not overly heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or smaller baking dishes—great for portion control or special dinners. You could also layer it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or scoop it onto toasted baguette slices as a hearty appetizer. No matter how you present it, this Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe never fails to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent next-day lunch or easy dinner option.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, which is perfect for prepping meals ahead of time. Portion it into airtight freezer containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe, place it in a preheated 350°F oven and bake until warmed through and bubbly, typically about 20 minutes if thawed. For single servings, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts perfectly in this casserole, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is fantastic for meal prepping because it stores and reheats well. You can make it ahead, portion it, and have ready-made meals waiting for you during busy weekdays.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free ones, or use crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the crunch in the topping without gluten.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade light cream sauce with low-fat milk, chicken broth, a little flour to thicken, and seasonings. This keeps the recipe fresh and even more wholesome.
How spicy is the seasoning in this casserole?
The seasoning adds warm and savory flavors with a mild smoky touch from paprika but isn’t spicy hot. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste by increasing or decreasing the garlic powder, paprika, or adding a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is truly a keeper—comfort food that’s both indulgent and health-conscious, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a delight. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite go-to dish!
Print
Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lightened-Up Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a healthier twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu. Featuring tender boneless chicken breasts layered with ham and Swiss cheese, all baked in a flavorful, creamy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb and ham crust. Perfect for a comforting family dinner with reduced fat content and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
Sauce
- 1 can (fat free) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian blend seasoning
- Pinch of salt & pepper
Layers and Topping
- 6 slices deli ham (divided)
- 6 slices Swiss cheese (divided)
- 1 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare and Brown Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Slice the chicken breast and season both sides evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then brown the chicken slices for about 1 minute on each side, adding extra flavor through caramelization.
- Arrange Chicken in Casserole: Remove the browned chicken from the heat and layer it evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish, forming a solid base for the casserole.
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the fat free cream of chicken soup, milk, and sauce seasonings (paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian blend seasoning, salt, and pepper). Stir continuously until the sauce is fully combined and warmed through. Then remove from heat.
- Layer the Casserole: Pour half of the warm sauce over the chicken layer. Then add half of the deli ham slices, followed by half of the Swiss cheese slices. Pour the remaining sauce evenly on top, then layer the remaining ham and cheese over the sauce.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the cup of bread crumbs with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and any reserved ham pieces if available. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy crust when baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the assembled casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges, indicating it’s heated through and ready to serve.
Notes
- Using fat free cream of chicken soup helps lower the fat content compared to traditional recipes.
- Lightly browning the chicken adds extra depth of flavor and texture without adding many calories.
- Feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a slightly different taste.
- For gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
