Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, making it creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole combines tender chicken with pasta and Swiss cheese, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Its rich flavors make it an instant favorite among both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole can be whipped up quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy sauce and melted cheese create a comforting taste that appeals to everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese for a unique twist.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown topping adds a beautiful finish that will impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make assembling the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch casserole dish: This size is perfect for holding all the delicious ingredients and allows for even baking.
• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta quickly while ensuring it’s perfectly al dente.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your creamy sauce ingredients smoothly before adding them to the casserole.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of 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

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package directions (about 7–8 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Add the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir to coat all ingredients evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out into an even layer.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a potluck, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons adds freshness.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.

Add Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy casserole and adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can complement the dish and are great for soaking up any sauce.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus brings out earthy flavors that pair well with the cheesy components of the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Perfecting your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality Swiss cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the cavatappi until just al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your sauce before baking; you can always add more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
• Cool Before Serving: Letting the casserole cool for about 5 minutes makes it easier to serve and allows flavors to settle.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix in different cheeses or breadcrumbs for varied textures and tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Complement your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with these delightful side dishes that enhance its comforting flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a satisfying addition.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a pop of color and crunch alongside the rich casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy dish.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and pair beautifully with savory flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob is fun to eat and adds a touch of sweetness.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can be refreshing and balances out the richness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, avoiding some common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not cooking pasta properly: If the pasta is overcooked, it can become mushy in the casserole. Make sure to cook it al dente for the best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always add enough seasoned salt and black pepper to enhance the dish.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting the casserole’s creaminess. Opt for good quality Swiss cheese for a rich flavor.
• Not letting it rest after baking: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to set properly.
• Inconsistent ingredient measurements: Be precise with your ingredient measurements, especially with liquids like half & half, to maintain the right consistency in your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in an airtight container.
• item It can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• item To freeze, place cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil.
• item It will keep for up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20–25 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 1–2 minutes or until warmed thoroughly.
• item Stovetop: On low heat, stir often in a pan until heated evenly. This method helps retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella if desired. Each will bring its unique flavor profile.

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I customize my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or broccoli for additional nutrition and color. You can also use different proteins such as turkey or chicken thighs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is perfect for meal prep due to its easy storage and reheating properties, making it convenient for busy days.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines creamy textures with cheesy goodness. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or potlucks, and you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this comforting recipe a try!