CHICKEN CORDON BLEU CASSEROLE

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines the beloved flavors of the classic dish into a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy baked pasta. Featuring tender chicken, savory ham, and Swiss cheese, this recipe is a versatile and family-friendly dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into every detail you need to recreate this comforting masterpiece at home.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Effortless Preparation

Skip the breading and frying of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu. This casserole captures the essence of the dish with minimal effort and time.

Comfort Food at Its Best

With its creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish epitomizes comfort food.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor

Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty, flavorful casserole that’s packed with protein and cheesy goodness.

Highly Adaptable

Whether you’re using leftover ingredients or customizing the cheese and seasonings, this recipe is endlessly versatile.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

1. Pasta

Choose short, hearty pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini. These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

2. Chicken and Ham

Use cooked, cubed chicken and ham to create the signature “Cordon Bleu” flavor combination. Store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works perfectly, and deli-sliced or diced ham adds a savory touch.

3. Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese delivers the nutty, slightly tangy notes that are essential to this dish. Shred the cheese yourself for optimal melting and creaminess.

4. Cream Cheese and Milk

These ingredients form the base of a rich, velvety cheese sauce that ties all the components together.

5. Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crispy topping that adds texture and visual appeal.

6. Cayenne Pepper

A dash of cayenne adds subtle heat, enhancing the creamy sauce without overwhelming it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Ham

1. Add the cooked chicken and ham to the drained pasta.
2. Toss until evenly combined, ensuring every bite has a balance of protein and carbs.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to broil.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the following:
   • 1 cup of milk
   • 4 ounces of cream cheese
   • 1 tablespoon of minced onion
3. Cook over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture and stir to coat.
5. Add 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs over the top.
4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the breadcrumbs for optimal browning.

Step 5: Broil and Serve

1. Place the casserole under the broiler for 3-4 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
2. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

1. Fresh Greens

A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

2. Garlic Bread

Serve warm slices of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

3. Steamed Vegetables

Broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus pair beautifully with this dish.

4. Wine Pairing

Complement the flavors with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing

Prepare the casserole without the breadcrumbs and butter topping. Freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. Add the toppings before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. For frozen casseroles, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.