Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines the nostalgia of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with the heartiness of a comforting baked meal, then the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is exactly what you need. This casserole takes that irresistible combination of tender chicken, Swiss cheese, and a tangy mustard cream sauce and turns it into a layered, cozy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer that makes every bite unforgettable.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is rooted in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the peppery Dijon mustard adding a subtle zing to the Swiss cheese melting into gooey goodness, these simple components come together in harmony.

1 lb cavatappi pasta: The twisted shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich body and a comforting, creamy base to the casserole.
2 cups half & half: Lightens the cream of chicken soup and adds lush, smooth texture.
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang that brightens the dish and complements the cheese.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
1 teaspoon seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s): Deepens the overall savory profile.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just a hint of spicy warmth.
3 cups shredded Swiss cheese: The star cheese that melts gorgeously and adds nutty flavor.
2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced: Tender, juicy chicken that saves time and delivers great flavor.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Coats the breadcrumbs for a perfectly golden topping.
¾ cup plain panko bread crumbs: Adds a crisp, crunchy contrast.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the topping with a salty, umami punch.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water for about 7 to 8 minutes until it’s al dente. This pasta shape is perfect because its spirals trap the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mixing these creates a luscious, flavorful sauce that ties the whole casserole together with a lovely balance of creaminess and tang.

Step 4: Assemble the Cordon Bleu Casserole

Add the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and cooked pasta to the bowl with your creamy sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated and mixed. Then pour the whole mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for even baking.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a smaller bowl, stir together the melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will toast beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior. Sprinkle it evenly over your casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling sauce and a beautifully browned breadcrumb topping. The enticing aroma filling your kitchen at this stage will be hard to resist.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, let the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole rest for a few minutes to allow it to set slightly, making it easier to serve. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that lifts the whole dish.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for garnish—it adds a subtle herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness of the casserole. You could also try chopped chives or a light drizzle of honey mustard sauce to complement those classic Cordon Bleu flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pairing this casserole with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple mixed greens salad balances the richness and adds textural contrast. For something heartier, roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed green beans also do the trick.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Family-style straight from the oven for a casual gathering, or plate it neatly alongside a handful of vibrant veggies for an elegant dinner. For a fun twist, try individual ramekins for single servings, perfect for impressing guests or meal prepping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors even deepen after a day, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Just cover it tightly with foil or use a freezer-safe container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This method keeps the crumb topping crispy. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works fine—but you might lose some of that golden crunch.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta for the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is ideal for its shape and sauce-holding ability, other pasta like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni can also work well.

Is it necessary to use rotisserie chicken?

Not at all. Rotisserie chicken is just a convenient and flavorful option. You can use leftover cooked chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts and dice them for this recipe.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the Swiss cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a dairy-free cream soup and milk substitute. The taste will differ but it can still be very delicious.

How spicy is the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

This casserole is mildly seasoned with Dijon mustard offering gentle tanginess but no real heat. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little kick.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it right before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, and the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole does just that. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and that crave-worthy golden topping, it’s impossible not to smile while eating it. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try; once you do, it might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner or your go-to dish for sharing with friends and family.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and cheesy baked dish that combines tender rotisserie chicken, Swiss cheese, and cavatappi pasta in a rich Dijon mustard-infused sauce, topped with a buttery Parmesan panko crust. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
Cook the pasta: 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.
Make the sauce: 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.
Assemble the casserole: 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.
Prepare the topping: 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 the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: 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.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked chicken breast or thigh meat for a homemade touch.
Swiss cheese can be replaced with Gruyère or a mild cheddar if preferred.
For a lower-fat option, use low-fat half & half or milk instead.
Ensure the pasta is drained well to avoid a watery casserole.
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to help it set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American