Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the flavors of the classic French dish into an easy-to-make casserole. With tender pasta, savory chicken, smoky ham, and a creamy Swiss cheese sauce, this recipe is topped with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs for the perfect finishing touch.
Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is both hearty and elegant. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• All-in-One Dish: Combines protein, carbs, and creamy sauce for a satisfying meal.
• Crunchy Topping: Golden Panko breadcrumbs add texture and contrast.
• Quick and Easy: Uses cooked chicken and ham for convenience.
Ingredients
• 1 lb pasta (penne or any fun-shaped pasta)
• 1 cup cooked and cubed chicken breasts
• 1 cup cooked and cubed ham
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp dried minced onion
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• 1 cup Panko crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes (or according to package instructions).
3. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Ham
1. Add the cooked, cubed chicken and ham to the drained pasta.
2. Toss the mixture until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. Preheat your broiler.
2. In a medium saucepan over low-medium heat, combine milk, softened cream cheese, and minced onion.
3. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Add 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese and mix until melted.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the breadcrumbs to enhance crispiness.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
1. Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 4 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
2. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and serve hot.
2. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Tips
• Pasta Choice: Use a fun-shaped pasta like rotini or bowtie for extra texture and visual appeal.
• Cheese Options: Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Even Crispier Topping: Toast the Panko crumbs in butter in a skillet before sprinkling them over the casserole.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: Freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before broiling.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole delivers the elegance of a classic dish with the convenience of a baked casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crunchy on top, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
