When I think of comforting breakfasts that bring my family together, this Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole always comes to mind. I first made it on a chilly weekend morning when I wanted something hearty, warm, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The smell of buttery croissants baking with melted cheese filled the house, and by the time it came out of the oven, everyone was waiting eagerly at the table. It quickly became one of those dishes that I reach for whenever I want a stress-free breakfast that still feels special.

This casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a moment of joy at the start of the day. I love how it combines simple ingredients in a way that feels rich and indulgent, yet it doesn’t require complicated steps. Every bite brings layers of flaky croissant pieces, savory chicken ham, and gooey melted cheese, making it hard to stop at just one serving. Best of all, it’s something that can be prepared in advance, which means less rush in the morning and more time to enjoy with family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile
One of my favorite things about this casserole is how easily it can be adapted. If you prefer a different cheese, you can swap it in. If you want to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, they blend beautifully into the layers. This flexibility makes it a go-to dish, whether I’m serving picky eaters or adventurous food lovers.

Budget-Friendly
It might look and taste like something from a fancy café, but this recipe uses affordable and accessible ingredients. Leftover croissants from the bakery or even day-old ones are perfect here, turning what might go to waste into something truly delicious. The use of chicken ham keeps it light, tasty, and economical without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

5–6 buttery croissants (preferably slightly stale)
1 ½ cups diced chicken ham
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

This casserole has become a staple in my kitchen because it checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, versatile, and satisfying. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a family gathering, or even a holiday breakfast, I know this dish will always leave the table empty and everyone happy.

How to Make This Recipe

This Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is simple to prepare, yet the results are always impressive. I like that it can be assembled quickly, and if I want to, I can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. The flavors of buttery croissants, savory chicken ham, and gooey cheese come together beautifully in every layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

Prepare the baking dish
Start by greasing a large baking dish with butter. This step prevents sticking and also adds a subtle richness to the edges of the casserole.
Cut the croissants
Slice the croissants into bite-sized pieces. I usually cut them into halves or thirds so they layer well in the dish.
Layer the base
Place half of the croissant pieces evenly into the greased baking dish. Spread them out so that the bottom is covered.
Add the chicken ham
Sprinkle half of the diced chicken ham over the croissant pieces. Distribute it evenly so every bite has a little savory flavor.
Add the cheese
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the ham. The cheese will melt into the layers, holding everything together.
Repeat layers
Add the remaining croissant pieces, followed by the rest of the chicken ham and shredded cheese. This creates a hearty, layered casserole.
Mix the egg custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour over the casserole
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissant layers. Press the croissants down lightly with a spoon so they absorb the liquid.
Let it rest
If baking immediately, let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes so the croissants can soak up the egg mixture. For best results, cover it and refrigerate overnight.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the casserole for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Insert a knife in the middle; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Cool and serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape when serving.

Quick and Easy

This dish is perfect when I want to serve something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Using croissants means there’s no need to make a crust or dough from scratch. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward.

Customizable

What I love most about this casserole is how easy it is to adjust based on what I have at home. Sometimes I swap the chicken ham for leftover roasted chicken or add in vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Different cheeses like Swiss or gouda also work beautifully, giving it a new twist each time.

Crowd-Pleasing

This recipe is always a hit at family gatherings and brunches. The golden, cheesy top looks inviting, and the aroma that fills the kitchen makes everyone eager to dig in. It’s the kind of dish that works for holidays, special occasions, or even a regular weekend breakfast when I want to treat my loved ones.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply bake it fresh.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Bake the casserole, let it cool, then cut it into portions. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What other meats can I use instead of chicken ham?
You can use turkey bacon, diced chicken breast, or even beef sausage. The flavors blend well with the croissants and cheese.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers works wonderfully. Just sauté them lightly before layering to avoid extra moisture.

What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but Swiss, gouda, or provolone are also excellent choices. Use what you love or what you have on hand.

How do I know the casserole is done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The middle should be firm, not runny.

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?
Yes, but slightly stale croissants soak up the egg mixture better. If using fresh ones, you can toast them lightly first.

chicken ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

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Print Recipe

This Chicken Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish made with buttery croissants, savory chicken ham, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a family breakfast, brunch, or even a holiday morning. Easy to assemble and customizable, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser.

Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

5–6 buttery croissants (slightly stale preferred)
1 ½ cups diced chicken ham
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

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Instructions

Grease a large baking dish with butter.
Slice croissants into halves or thirds.
Place half of the croissant pieces evenly in the dish.
Sprinkle half of the chicken ham over the croissants.
Add half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers with remaining croissants, ham, and cheese.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant layers. Press croissants down gently so they absorb the liquid.
Let the mixture rest for 10–15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for best results.
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown on top and the center is set.
Remove from oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Day-old croissants work best because they absorb the custard mixture better.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Try using different cheeses such as Swiss or gouda for variety.
This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight.

Author: Layla
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes