Description

Welcome to the wonderful world of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, where comfort food meets gourmet flair in one harmonious dish! Imagine a symphony of flavors featuring tender rotisserie chicken, nutty Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce all enveloped in al dente cavatappi pasta. Each mouthful is a celebration of textures and tastes, reminiscent of the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu but in an approachable, heartwarming casserole form. The creamy, cheesy goodness blends beautifully with the vibrant hints of Dijon mustard, transforming an already delicious meal into something extraordinary.

What makes this dish so special is its effortless preparation. Designed to be family-friendly and budget-conscious, this casserole is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The elements come together swiftly, making it a delightful option for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a satisfying meal. The beauty of this recipe also lies in its adaptability; you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, making it a versatile offering at family gatherings or potlucks.

So grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure, where creamy indulgence and easy preparation await you!

Ingredients

• Casserole Mixture:
• Cavatappi pasta - 12 ounces
• Cream of chicken soup - 10.5 ounces (1 can)
• Half & half - 1 cup
• Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley - ¼ cup, chopped
• Season salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - ½ teaspoon
• Swiss cheese - 1 ½ cups, shredded
• Rotisserie chicken - 3 cups, shredded
• Topping:
• Melted butter - 4 tablespoons
• Panko breadcrumbs - 1 cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese - ½ cup
• Optional Ingredients:
• For a lighter casserole: Use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup and substitute half & half with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative.
• For additional flavor: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or broccoli to the casserole mixture for extra veggies and nutritional value.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Coat a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Boil water in a large pot and cook cavatappi pasta for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain without rinsing.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup and half & half until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, season salt, and black pepper, and mix well.
5. Shred Swiss cheese and rotisserie chicken, then add to the creamy sauce and stir gently.
6. Fold the drained cavatappi into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
8. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese until well coated. Sprinkle over the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

If you want to elevate the meal further, consider serving your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with a light side salad. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a balance to the rich dish, refreshing the palate and enhancing the overall dining experience.

For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the ingredients with your favorite alternatives. Use gluten-free pasta or a plant-based cream of chicken soup for a dairy-free option. Not a fan of Swiss cheese? Gruyère or mozzarella can bring a different dimension to the casserole while keeping it delicious.

When you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven, adding a touch of milk or broth while reheating to reignite some of that creaminess lost during storage.
Preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not just about creating a meal but rather an experience filled with warmth, flavors, and nostalgia for many. Each bite teems with the creamy goodness of chicken and cheese, elevated by a satisfying crunch from the topping. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this dish is bound to leave everyone coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

For more culinary explorations, don’t hesitate to browse through our collection of comforting casserole recipes, quick dinner ideas, and side dishes that perfectly complement this delicious main course. Share this delightful and easy casserole with your loved ones and watch their smiles grow as they savor every last morsel. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy it brings to your table!