Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it combines the rich flavors of Swiss cheese, rotisserie chicken, and Dijon mustard in a creamy and comforting casserole. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, and the crispy, golden panko topping adds the perfect texture to every bite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups of half & half
• 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of season salt (I use Lowry’s brand)
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• 3 cups of Swiss cheese, shredded
• 2 cups of rotisserie chicken, diced
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup of plain panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray a 9x13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Cook the cavatappi pasta in a large pot of boiling water, following package instructions, for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, fresh chopped parsley, season salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked cavatappi pasta. Mix until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole filling.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or cheddar would also work wonderfully as a substitute for Swiss.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a little extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite veggies.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbows can be substituted.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

4. How can I make the topping crunchier?

For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Gruyère or cheddar would work well in place of Swiss cheese.

6. Can I use low-fat cream of chicken soup?

Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat versions of the soup and half & half for a lighter option.

7. What can I serve this casserole with?

This casserole pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, broccoli, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

9. Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can cook and shred fresh chicken, but rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.

10. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole should be golden brown on top, bubbly, and hot in the center. You can check with a thermometer, and it should read 165°F in the center.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s an easy, comforting, and versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick and hearty dinner, this casserole will definitely become a family favorite.

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