why make this recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu into a creamy, cheesy casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it is easy to prepare and feeds a crowd. This dish brings together the savory taste of chicken and ham with rich Swiss cheese and crispy panko topping, all baked to perfection.
how to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups half & half
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup plain panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and 2 cups of Swiss cheese, mixing everything until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is best served warm. You can dish it out onto plates and enjoy it as a complete meal. It pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
how to store Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
tips to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding cooked diced ham to the mixture for an extra touch of sweetness.
- You can substitute the cavatappi pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
- For a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the breadcrumb topping.
variation
You can make a lighter version of this casserole by using low-fat cream of chicken soup and low-fat cheese. For a gluten-free option, substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can cook and shred fresh chicken for this recipe. Just ensure it is fully cooked before mixing it in.
How long does it take to cook the pasta?
Typically, cavatappi pasta takes about 7-9 minutes to cook until al dente. Check the package for specific cooking times.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly in an airtight container. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.