Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of melted cheese, savory chicken, and a hint of crispy breadcrumbs. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience that will wrap you in a warm culinary hug. Crock Pot Cashew Chicken Picture diving into a creamy, cheesy pasta layered with succulent chicken and ham, all baked to golden perfection. Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce The moment you take your first bite, your taste buds will dance with delight as flavors mingle and textures playfully interact. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy chicken alfredo lasagna recipe.
Now, let me take you back to a family gathering where this dish stole the show. Everyone was joyfully chatting while my cousin tried to sneakily grab another helping. The laughter echoed through the room, and amidst it all, I couldn’t help but feel proud of this creation. It’s perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where comfort food reigns supreme. Get ready for a flavor experience that will leave you wanting more!
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta takes minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The creamy texture combined with the crispy topping creates an inviting presentation. It’s versatile enough for any meal occasion and can be easily customized to suit dietary preferences. [/info_box]
Sharing this dish at our last family reunion had everyone asking for seconds and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Cooked Ham: Use thinly sliced ham for easy layering; it complements the chicken perfectly.
Pasta: Any small pasta like shells or macaroni works well; they hold the sauce nicely.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the casserole; don’t skimp on this creamy goodness!
Shredded Cheese: A mix of Swiss and cheddar gives that gooey melted texture everyone loves.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor and crunch on top.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle enhances the overall flavor profile; it’s a must-have in my pantry!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those delicious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to keep everything from sticking together.
Cook Your Pasta: Boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside so it can cool slightly.
Prepare Your Chicken**: While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side. Chicken Bell Pepper Burritos.
Combine Ingredients**: In a large bowl, mix together cooked pasta, diced chicken, ham slices, heavy cream, garlic powder, and half of your shredded cheese until everything is well coated.
Add Toppings**: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs for that crunchy contrast.
Bake Until Golden**: Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy that heavenly aroma wafting through your home!
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is sure to become a family favorite! Chicken Fajita Stuffed Peppers.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a family favorite. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, while the cheesy goodness keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by cooking the pasta first; this saves time and ensures it’s perfectly al dente when mixed with the casserole. While pasta cooks, sauté chicken and ham until golden, then prepare your creamy sauce. Combine all ingredients for a delightful dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole grain, or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Swiss or gouda, for a unique twist on flavor.
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, ensuring the casserole retains its creamy texture and delightful flavors.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve perfect results, remember to avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly underdone before combining with other ingredients. Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate flavors and presentation. Always let the casserole sit briefly before serving; it allows flavors to meld beautifully. [/info_box]
Cooking this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta has become my go-to dish for family gatherings; everyone leaves happy and full! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken can add great flavor and save time in preparation.
What type of pasta works best?
Any short pasta like penne or rotini works nicely, holding onto the sauce well.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Yes! Just ensure it’s stored properly in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta. This creamy, cheesy dish layers tender chicken, savory ham, and pasta, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for potlucks or family dinners, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (e.g., shells or macaroni)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mix of Swiss and cheddar)
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, ham, heavy cream, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheese until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Swap out the pasta for whole grain options or experiment with different cheeses like gouda for a unique twist.
