There’s something undeniably cozy about the rich, savory scents emanating from the oven, especially when it’s time for a comforting casserole. After a busy week of juggling work and family, I’m always on the lookout for a dish that’s not only delicious but also uncomplicated. That’s how I stumbled upon this Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole—a delightful blend of flavors that makes weeknight dinners feel special without the hassle.
The combination of creamy mayonnaise, Swiss cheese, and tender chunks of chicken and ham creates a dish that’s wonderfully hearty and guilt-free. Perfect for those looking to enjoy homemade goodness without the carbs of traditional casseroles, this recipe is sure to impress both family and guests alike. Best of all, it comes together in just under 30 minutes! Join me in making mealtime memorable with this twist on a beloved classic.
Why is Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up this wholesome casserole in no time.
Rich, Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and mayonnaise delivers a luscious mouthfeel that you’ll crave.
Protein-Packed: With 37g of protein per serving, this dish fuels your day without the carbs!
Versatile: Customize with your favorite cheeses or add some veggies for extra flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Don’t miss out on creating this delightful dish that aligns with your health goals. 💚
Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Ingredients
• Get ready for a deliciously creamy masterpiece!
For the Creamy Base
- ¼ cup mayonnaise – adds richness and helps bind the casserole together.
- ¼ cup heavy cream – creates a velvety texture that complements the flavors.
- 8 ounces cream cheese – use softened for an easy blend and ultimate creaminess.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese – provides a nutty flavor while keeping it low-carb.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the dish with a hint of savory goodness.
- dash fresh ground pepper – adds a touch of spice to elevate the taste.
For the Proteins
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese – contributes a creamy, smooth texture that melts beautifully.
- 1 pound ham – use chopped ham for a savory, protein-packed punch.
- 20 ounces cooked chicken – shredded or chopped, it’s the star of this keto casserole!
Optional Add-Ons
- ½ cup chicken bone broth or stock – enhances flavor and moisture; feel free to skip for a thicker dish.
- ½ cup crushed pork rinds – perfect for a crispy topping that keeps it keto-friendly!
Enjoy every delicious bite of your Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, and let the flavors speak for themselves!
How to Make Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, heavy cream, and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This base will lend richness to your casserole.
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Add Flavors: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and fresh ground pepper. This blend of flavors will elevate your dish with irresistible savoriness.
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Incorporate Proteins: Gently fold in the Swiss cheese, chopped ham, and shredded chicken. If using, pour in the chicken bone broth to enhance the flavor and moisture of the mixture.
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Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. If you’d like some crunch, sprinkle the crushed pork rinds on top for a delightful, crispy finish.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped chicken and ham enhance flavor and ensure better texture. Avoid pre-packaged meats for the best results.
- Creamy Consistency: Make sure your cream cheese is softened adequately to blend smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing lumps in your casserole.
- Top it Right: If you prefer a crunchier topping, double the crushed pork rinds. Just keep an eye on the baking time to prevent burning.
- Watch the Bake: Overbaking can lead to a dry casserole. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes to keep it creamy and moist.
- Customize Wisely: While the base is delicious as is, feel free to add cooked vegetables for vibrant flavors; just be cautious not to add too much moisture.
This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not only easy but promises to be a family favorite!
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix together the creamy base—mayonnaise, heavy cream, and cream cheese—up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to keep everything fresh. Additionally, you can chop the ham and shred the chicken ahead of time, storing these proteins in airtight containers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in your casserole dish, sprinkle with Swiss cheese and crushed pork rinds, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free, delicious dinner without sacrificing quality!
How to Store and Freeze Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To warm, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated evenly throughout. Enjoy your Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole at its best!
What to Serve with Chicken and Ham Casserole?
A comforting dish like this deserves a delightful spread to elevate your meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused loaf is perfect for soaking up any delicious casserole sauce, enhancing every bite.
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Steamed Broccoli: Add a pop of color and nutrients with these bright green florets; their mild flavor balances the rich casserole beautifully.
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Crispy Side Salad: A light, crunchy salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creaminess while refreshing your palate. Think crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
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Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slightly nutty flavor pairs well, while the roasted texture contrasts pleasingly with the creamy casserole.
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Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative mimics mashed potatoes but offers a lighter, fluffy texture that still satifies. Rich, creamy, and oh-so-comforting!
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of oaked Chardonnay harmonizes with the creaminess of the casserole and the saltiness of the ham, making for a delightful sipping experience.
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Yummy Pumpkin Muffins: They add an unexpected sweetness that dances with the savory notes of the casserole, making for an enchanting combination.
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Apple Crisp: Finish off the meal with a warm, spiced apple crisp for a delightful contrast to the savory casserole—a sweet ending to a comforting meal.
Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this comforting casserole your own with these delightful twists!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken and ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty meat-free option.
Add a splash of soy sauce for extra umami flavors and a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top for a cheesy finish. -
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an added heat level.
This fiery twist will excite your taste buds while keeping the creamy base balanced. -
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the dish with aromatic notes.
A little goes a long way; just be sure to finely chop them before mixing in so every bite is infused with flavor. -
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese and mayonnaise with cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a delicious dairy-free version.
Adding nutritional yeast can also contribute a cheesy flavor that everyone can enjoy! -
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Swap Swiss cheese with gouda, cheddar, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Each variety brings its own unique taste, and mixing cheeses can create a beautiful melty texture! -
Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium ham and cheese along with homemade chicken bone broth to manage salt levels.
You can taste all the deliciousness without overwhelming your palate with salt! -
Crunchy Topping: Instead of pork rinds, try crushed nuts or seeds for a unique crunch and added healthy fats.
Pecans or almonds can add a lovely nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the casserole. -
Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower to boost nutrition and add vibrant color to your dish.
These veggies blend well, enhancing texture and making your casserole even more satisfying!
Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for a high-quality, nitrate-free ham. Look for cuts that are moist and not overly processed, as this will enhance the savory depth of your casserole. If you can, go for a honey or maple-glazed option for a touch of sweetness that complements the rich cheeses beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated throughout—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick! Enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to save some for later, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. I recommend thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed evenly throughout. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
What if I don’t have pork rinds for the topping?
No worries at all! If you’re out of pork rinds or prefer something different, you can use crushed nuts or even a blend of cheese and breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Just be sure to keep the ingredients keto-friendly to maintain that lovely low-carb profile!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much so! This casserole is gluten-free and suitable for low-carb diets, making it ideal for those watching their carbohydrate intake. However, if you or any guests have dairy allergies, consider substituting the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut cream for a delicious lactose-free version. Just remember, the flavor and texture may vary a bit, but it will still be comforting!
What if my casserole comes out too dry?
If you find your casserole isn’t as creamy as you’d like, it may be due to overbaking or insufficient moisture. To fix this, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream before baking next time, which will help maintain that luscious texture. And don’t forget to cover it with foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture; just remove it for the last 5-10 minutes to achieve that gorgeous golden top!
Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole You'll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, heavy cream, and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and fresh ground pepper.
- Gently fold in the Swiss cheese, chopped ham, and shredded chicken.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- If desired, sprinkle the crushed pork rinds on top.
- Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.