Introduction

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta all baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The image shows a close-up of creamy baked macaroni and cheese with small cubes of ham mixed in. The macaroni noodles are coated in a smooth, melted cheese sauce that is pale yellow and creamy in texture. On top, there is a thick golden-brown breadcrumb crust that looks crunchy and evenly browned, with some fresh green herbs sprinkled lightly for a touch of color. The dish is presented against a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is holding a white dish containing the macaroni and cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb cavatappi pasta
2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
2 cups half & half
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s)
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 cups shredded Swiss cheese
2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup plain panko bread crumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package directions (about 7-8 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
Step 4: Add the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked pasta to the bowl with the sauce. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the bread crumbs are coated with the butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped ham or cooked bacon along with the chicken.
Substitute half & half with whole milk or heavy cream for a lighter or richer sauce.
Use gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.
Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce can enhance its warmth and depth.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through or bake the entire casserole covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy baked macaroni and cheese dish with small chunks of ham mixed throughout. The top layer is golden brown with crispy breadcrumbs, giving it a crunchy texture. Beneath the crunchy top, the macaroni pasta is covered in a thick, smooth, and creamy cheese sauce that looks rich and cheesy. The ham pieces are pink and scattered evenly among the pasta. The photo is tightly framed to highlight the gooey cheese pull and the texture contrast between the crispy top and soft pasta underneath. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, cooked and diced fresh chicken works well. Simply cook chicken breasts or thighs thoroughly, then dice before adding to the casserole.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking directly from cold.