Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna: A Hearty Twist on a Classic

If you’re a fan of the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’re in for a treat with this lasagna-inspired version! Combining the best elements of the traditional dish—succulent chicken, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a creamy sauce—this Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna elevates your weeknight dinner to something truly special. It’s layered like a lasagna but packs in the flavors of a classic Cordon Bleu, making it a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna?

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna offers a delicious balance between indulgence and comfort. This recipe combines the elegance of Chicken Cordon Bleu with the comfort of lasagna. The layers of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a rich cream sauce make it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a comforting weeknight meal, this dish brings gourmet flavors to your table with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna, you don’t need many specialized ingredients, but a few key ones will ensure the rich, creamy taste:

3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
1½ cups ham, diced (use thick-cut ham for extra texture)
3 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (Gruyere also works well)
1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for added tang)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by making a rich, creamy white sauce, also known as a béchamel sauce, which will serve as the base for your lasagna layers. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, ensuring you stir constantly to avoid burning.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine until the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook the sauce until it begins to thicken. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat while you prepare the rest of the lasagna components.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

If you haven’t already pre-cooked your chicken, this is the time to do it. You can either boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked. Shred or dice the chicken once cooled. For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika before cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

While your sauce simmers, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven later. Once the noodles are ready, drain them and set aside.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Now it’s time to assemble your Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Start by spreading a thin layer of your creamy béchamel sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking. Lay down a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.

Next, spread a layer of the shredded chicken over the noodles, followed by a layer of diced ham. Then sprinkle a generous handful of shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Pour a portion of your creamy béchamel sauce over this layer before adding another layer of noodles.

Repeat this process—noodles, chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and sauce—until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a final layer of lasagna noodles. Top everything off with the remaining sauce and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for that perfectly melted, golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes covered, allowing the flavors to meld and the lasagna to heat through. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling on top.

Once done, take the Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make slicing easier and allow the layers to set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish your Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve alongside a light salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a great option. It saves cooking time and adds an extra depth of flavor.
Ham Substitutes: While traditional ham works best, you can also use prosciutto or even turkey ham if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Variations: Swiss cheese is traditional, but Gruyere or even a mild cheddar can be substituted if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor.
Make It Ahead: This lasagna can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the lasagna, cover tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Pairing Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is rich and creamy, so pairing it with something light and fresh is always a good idea. Here are a few pairing suggestions to complement your meal:

Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the lasagna.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
White Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods. It’s indulgent enough for a weekend dinner party but simple enough for a family weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and the creamy sauce will make this dish a go-to favorite in your household.

So next time you’re looking to switch things up, give this lasagna a try. Your taste buds will thank you!