Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dinner that’s equal parts comfort, elegance, and pure deliciousness, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine all the savory, cheesy, and savory notes of classic chicken cordon bleu, but in an easy-bake casserole format that transforms a busy weeknight into a special occasion. This dish features tender cavatappi pasta, juicy rotisserie chicken, Swiss cheese, and a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping, all tied together by a creamy, flavor-packed sauce. It’s the best of both worlds—fancy enough to impress but simple enough for a quick family meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole lies in how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one is carefully chosen to deliver flavor, texture, and that signature creamy bite—don’t skip a thing for the ultimate comfort dish!

• Cavatappi Pasta: Its fun, corkscrew shape holds onto all that luscious sauce, making every bite truly satisfying.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic pantry staple creates the creamy, savory base for the casserole—you’ll love the velvety finish it brings!
• Half & Half: Adds luxurious creaminess without overpowering the dish; milk works in a pinch, but this is worth the splurge.
• Dijon Mustard: Just the right zing to balance the rich sauce; it gives Chicken Cordon Bleu its French-inspired flair.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the whole casserole, both in color and in flavor—don’t leave this out!
• Seasoned Salt: A special seasoning blend like Lawry’s boosts overall flavor and depth.
• Black Pepper: Just a pinch perks up all the other flavors in each forkful.
• Shredded Swiss Cheese: Creamy, nutty, and melty—Swiss cheese is the heart and soul of any Chicken Cordon Bleu inspiration.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked, diced rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and packs in tons of flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted and mixed into the topping, it transforms the bread crumbs into crispy, buttery heaven.
• Plain Panko Bread Crumbs: Light and crunchy, they provide that irresistible golden crust.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top adds umami and extra crispness to the casserole’s finish.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give a 9×13-inch casserole dish a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks later—this small step makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the cavatappi pasta and cook it according to the package (usually around 7-8 minutes) until it’s just al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside—you want them a bit firm since they’ll cook more in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy; this is the backbone of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, so give it a good mix!

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Now the magic happens! Add the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked pasta to that bowl of sauce. Stir everything together until every piece of pasta and chicken is fully coated in cheesy, creamy goodness. Pour this luscious mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the bread crumbs are loosened up and well coated with butter—this mixture is the secret to that golden, crunchy topping that makes every Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole so irresistible. Sprinkle evenly over your casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch for bubbling edges and a deep golden color on top. That’s your cue that everything inside is hot, melty, and ready for dinner.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for just a few minutes so it sets up perfectly. Top with extra chopped parsley for a pop of fresh color, then serve straight from the dish—get ready for the oohs and ahhs!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh parsley is a classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, adding both color and brightness. You can also top each serving with a little extra shaved Swiss cheese, or finely sliced chives if you fancy switching things up. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper just before serving is always welcome, too.

Side Dishes

This casserole is truly the star of any meal, but pairing it with sides can elevate your dinner to a feast. Light, crisp green salads help cut through the richness, while roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans are perfect for a burst of color. For something extra cozy, serve with garlicky bread or warm rolls to scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun individual servings, spoon Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole into ramekins before baking and serve each guest their own mini portion. If you’re hosting, add a few decorative Swiss cheese slices or tiny flags on toothpicks for a festive vibe. For potlucks, bring it right in the casserole dish and let guests serve themselves hearty scoops—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator. Simply let it cool completely, then cover your dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It stays fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for lunches or another easy dinner.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, this casserole freezes like a dream! Assemble the entire dish up until baking and wrap it tightly with both plastic wrap and foil. Label it and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, cover your leftovers and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and piping hot. Individual portions can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes, but adding a splash of milk helps restore all the creamy goodness. Don’t forget to freshen up with a sprinkle of parsley before serving again!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is a fun, sauce-catching pasta, you can also use penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni without missing a beat. Just cook until al dente before mixing into the casserole.

What’s the best way to shred Swiss cheese?

A box grater makes quick work of a block of Swiss, but you can also use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch. For the ultimate melt, grate your own—freshly shredded cheese tends to melt smoother.

Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken?

Yes, if you have leftover roast chicken or even poached chicken breasts, dice them up and use instead. Just be sure they’re fully cooked and bite-sized so every spoonful of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is loaded with flavor!

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap in gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers for the topping. Most cream of chicken soups are not gluten free, so check labels or make your own to keep things safe for everyone.

Can I add ham to this casserole?

Definitely! Chopped ham is actually traditional in classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, so feel free to stir 1 to 2 cups of diced ham in with the chicken and cheese for an even more authentic, savory experience.

Final Thoughts

If you love cozy comfort and crave a homemade meal that feels a little bit special, you can count on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to deliver every single time. Give it a try and watch your family light up with every golden, cheesy forkful—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, too.

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