Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta Delight

The aroma of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta wafts through the kitchen, filling the air with savory delight. Picture tender chicken coated in crispy breadcrumbs, melted cheese oozing out, and a creamy sauce that brings it all together – it’s an experience for your taste buds that you simply can’t resist. creamy pasta dishes savory chicken recipes.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the table every Sunday night for a big dinner. One evening, I decided to whip up this casserole, and the delighted faces around the table were priceless. It has become a staple at our gatherings, perfect for cozy nights in or festive celebrations.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze. The flavor profile combines savory chicken, ham, and gooey cheese for a delightful experience. Its visually appealing layers will impress your guests as they dig in. This dish is versatile enough for casual family meals or special occasions, making it a true crowd-pleaser. [/info_box]

I remember one time when I made this recipe for my best friend’s birthday party; everyone raved about it and went back for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size. chicken fajita stuffed peppers.

• Ham: Thinly sliced ham enhances the savory flavor; choose your favorite type—smoked or honey-glazed works great.

• Swiss Cheese: Opt for good-quality Swiss cheese; its nutty flavor melts beautifully throughout the casserole.

• Pasta (Rotini or Penne): These shapes hold onto the sauce well; cook them al dente for the best texture.

• Heavy Cream: For that rich and creamy texture; don’t skimp—it’s what makes this casserole so comforting.

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch on top; they add a delightful contrast to the soft filling.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that adds depth; fresh garlic also works if you prefer stronger flavors.

• Black Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust to your personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven and Cook Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until just al dente—about 8 minutes.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: While the pasta cooks, take out a large casserole dish and spray it lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.

Combine Chicken and Ham: In a mixing bowl, combine diced cooked chicken and chopped ham. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavors before layering.

Add Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream over the chicken mixture and gently stir until everything is well-coated. The cream will create that luscious texture we all crave.

Add Pasta and Cheese: Fold in the cooked pasta until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Then layer Swiss cheese on top—let’s not forget that cheesy goodness!

Topping Time: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer. This will crisp up nicely in the oven while baking—yum!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy that mouth-watering aroma filling your kitchen!

And there you have it: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta! Serve hot right from the oven for maximum comfort food vibes. comfort food casserole Enjoy every cheesy bite with family or friends—this dish is bound to become a new favorite among your loved ones! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Chicken Parm Soup recipe.

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is a comforting blend of flavors. The creamy sauce and crispy topping create a delightful experience that warms the soul. Plus, it’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while simultaneously sautéing the chicken and ham. Then, prepare your cheesy sauce to mix everything together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional cheeses for something more adventurous like pepper jack or gouda. You can also toss in veggies like spinach for added nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain crispiness.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve the best flavor, season your chicken well before cooking. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully. For extra creaminess, don’t hesitate to add more cheese than the recipe calls for! [/info_box]

Creating this delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last helping. It’s an absolute hit every time!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! Penne or fusilli work great if you want variety.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking; just thaw before reheating.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully.