Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers the indulgent flavors of the classic dish with a fraction of the effort. It’s a time-saver, utilizing rotisserie chicken and simple assembly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, combined with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, provides a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate ingredient substitutions to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cavatappi pasta
- Cream of chicken soup
- Half & half
- Dijon mustard
- Rotisserie chicken
- Diced ham
- Swiss cheese
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Butter
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half & half, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, diced ham, and half of the shredded Swiss cheese to the sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole to add a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let it set. Enjoy it on its own or over rice or pasta for a more substantial meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Variations
- Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the pasta with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrates.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave on medium power until warm.
FAQs
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a simplified, baked version of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu dish, combining layers of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add extra baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten the recipe, use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, substitute half & half with low-fat milk, and add more vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
Steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Can I use leftover chicken or turkey?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken or turkey works well in this recipe. Shred or dice
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken, Smoked Beef , Swiss cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping in an easy, family-friendly bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this casserole delivers comforting flavors without the hassle of traditional preparation.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz cavatappi pasta
- Sauce: 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup half & half, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Protein: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 cup diced Beef
- Cheese: 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- Topping: 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta to al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, half & half, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked pasta, chicken, Beef , and half the Swiss cheese to the sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Assemble: Spread mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake: Cook for 30-35 minutes until bubbling and golden.
- Serve: Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute Gruyère or mozzarella for Swiss cheese.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist.
- Make it gluten-free with gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
