Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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Introduction:

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a mouthwatering twist on the classic French dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection in one comforting dish. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, exploring its origins, key ingredients, and easy-to-follow recipe for a memorable meal that will impress family and friends alike.

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 Lowrys brand
  •  teaspoon of black pepper
  • 3 cups of Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups of rotisserie chicken, diced
  • 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
  •  cup of plain panko bread crumbs
  •  cup of grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375F. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Cook the cavatappi pasta in a large pot of boiling water, according to package directions, for 7 to 8 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
  3. In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, fresh chopped parsley, season salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked cavatappi pasta. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients fully.
  5. Pour the chicken cordon bleu casserole filling into the prepared casserole dish.
  6. In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, plain panko bread crumbs, and grated parmesan cheese.
  7. Cover the top of the casserole filling evenly with the panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  9. Prep Time: 15 minutes  Cooking Time: 30 minutes  Total Time: 45 minutes
  10. Kcal: 766 kcal  Servings: 6 servings

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot and Fresh: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is best enjoyed when served immediately after baking, while the cheese is still gooey and the breadcrumbs are crispy.
  2. Garnish Before Serving: Just before serving, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
  3. Pair with Side Dishes: Accompany the casserole with complementary side dishes such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a green salad to complete the meal and add variety.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, allow it to cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of baking to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.
  2. Consume Within a Few Days: Enjoy leftover casserole within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
  3. Avoid Freezing: While possible, freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole may alter the texture of the sauce and cheese upon thawing, resulting in a less desirable consistency. If freezing is necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months.
  4. Reheat with Care: When reheating frozen or refrigerated casserole, do so gently in the microwave or oven to prevent drying out the chicken and maintaining the texture of the sauce and cheese. Cover with foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use other types of cheese in the casserole?
    • Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar to customize the flavor to your liking.
  2. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out, and bake according to the recipe instructions when ready.
  3. Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can make the casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  4. What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
    • Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, a green salad, or garlic bread. Choose your favorite sides to complement the flavors of the casserole.
  5. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for later?
    • While it’s possible to freeze the casserole, the texture of the sauce and cheese may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Consume within 1-2 months for best results.

Conclusion: 

With its flavorful combination of tender chicken, savory ham, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers a delicious twist on a timeless classic. Whether enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or served at a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and easy preparation. Try this recipe for a memorable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.