Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This easy chicken cordon bleu casserole is loaded with all the classic flavors but in casserole form! It can be prepped in advance which makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

 

Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

• This creamy chicken cordon bleu casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
• It combines tender pasta, savory ham, shredded chicken, and melty Swiss cheese with a crispy Ritz cracker topping.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is super easy to prepare and will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Rotini Pasta: Provides a hearty base that holds the creamy sauce well. Substitute with penne or fusilli if desired.
• Butter: Combines with the flour to thicken the creamy sauce and add rich flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the flavor. Garlic powder works if fresh garlic isn’t available.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection. Stick with all-purpose flour for this recipe.
• Half and Half: Creates a rich and creamy sauce. Substitute with equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds depth of flavor. I promise you won’t even taste the mustard!
• Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce. Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as substitutes.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Provides tender, flavorful protein. Use cooked leftover grilled chicken breast or thighs as well.
• Diced Ham: Brings a salty, savory element. Leftover holiday ham works well in this recipe!
• Ritz Crackers: Adds a buttery, crunchy topping. Substitute with panko breadcrumbs combined with melted butter for a similar taste and texture.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Cook the Pasta: Boil rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce: Melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Stir in garlic and flour, cooking for about 1 minute. Whisk in half and half, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Add the Cheese: Stir in half the Swiss cheese and all the Parmesan cheese until melted.

Combine the Ingredients: Add cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and most of the diced ham (reserve some for topping). Toss to coat everything evenly and warm through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish or an enameled cast iron pan. Top with the remaining Swiss cheese and diced ham.

Bake: Cover and bake at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese melts and the casserole is heated through.

Add the Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the casserole. Broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it just until al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
• Customize the Protein: Swap the chicken and ham for turkey or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms.
• Keep the Crackers Crispy: Add the topping just before broiling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• Assemble the casserole up to the baking step.
• Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• When ready to bake, remove from the fridge an hour prior and bake as directed.
• Plan to add a few extra minutes of baking time to account for the cold temperature.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the cracker topping) in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Add the cracker topping just before broiling.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

• Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power until heated thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

• easy house salad
• crispy garlic bread
• air fryer asparagus
• grilled halloumi salad
• herb roasted baby potatoes

Try these easy chicken recipes next!

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