If you're a fan of Chicken Cordon Bleu, prepare to fall in love with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna—a creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent dish that takes everything you love about the classic and layers it into a comforting casserole. This recipe is not for the faint of heart; it's rich, decadent, and absolutely irresistible.
Born out of the need to use up extra ham, this lasagna combines tender chicken, smoky ham, Swiss cheese, and a velvety white sauce to create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even as a special surprise for expecting moms who are craving something warm and cheesy, this dish is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients and Their Role
For the Lasagna
- 1 (8-oz) package of lasagna noodles – The foundation of the dish, providing the perfect structure to hold the layers together.
- 2 ¾ cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Adds protein and a savory depth to balance the creamy sauce.
- 8 ounces deli ham, diced – Brings a smoky, salty contrast to the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce.
For the Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce
- 1 ½ cups butter – Forms the base of the sauce, adding richness.
- 1 (8-oz) tub cream cheese, softened – Provides creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon pepper powder – Adds subtle warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ground – Lends a mild, earthy spice.
- 1 ¾ cups shredded Swiss cheese – The signature cheese of Chicken Cordon Bleu, giving a nutty, melty texture.
- ¼ cup hot milk – Helps thin the sauce to a pourable consistency.
For the Topping
- ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese – Creates a golden, cheesy crust.
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy texture to contrast the creamy layers.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (adjust to taste) – Brings a hint of herbal freshness to round out the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the cream cheese and stir continuously until it begins to melt (about 5 minutes).
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Whisk in the hot milk until smooth.
- Gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese, whisking until completely melted and the sauce thickens (this should take about 5 to 10 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread ¾ cup of cheese sauce at the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer ⅓ of the lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Sprinkle ½ of the cooked chicken and ½ of the ham evenly over the noodles.
- Spoon 1 cup of cheese sauce over the meat layer.
- Repeat with half of the remaining noodles, chicken, ham, and another cup of cheese sauce.
- For the final layer, add the remaining lasagna noodles, top with the remaining cheese sauce, and sprinkle ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese over the top.
- Finish with breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning to add a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Cover with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Bake for 25 minutes, covered in the preheated oven until bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy: The Swiss cheese sauce is velvety and coats every bite.
- Loaded with Flavor: The combination of ham, chicken, and cheese makes this dish irresistibly savory.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This lasagna reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna
- Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
- Don’t overcook the noodles—they will continue softening in the oven.
- Let the lasagna rest before slicing to keep the layers intact.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan to the topping for an extra crispy, cheesy crust.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this rich lasagna with a light side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the flavors. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus adds a pop of freshness, and a crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy, and savory elements into a satisfying, layered masterpiece. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe is a must-try. One bite, and you’ll understand why this indulgent dish is worth every calorie.
Give it a try and let us know—what’s your favorite way to enjoy Chicken Cordon Bleu?