Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound cavatappi pasta; 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of 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

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There’s nothing like the comforting embrace of a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. When the weather turns chilly, and you need something to please the entire family, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole delivers in spades. With its creamy sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it’s everything you love about the classic dish—simplified for everyday cooking.

Personally, casseroles are my secret weapon on busy weeknights or when I need something hearty for a weekend dinner. This recipe is one of my favorites because it feels a little fancy (hello, Dijon mustard and Swiss cheese!), but it’s so easy to pull together. Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks or feeding a crowd, with flavors everyone will adore. Let’s dive in and get started!

Prepping the Base: Pasta and Sauce

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get your oven warmed up. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to make cleanup a breeze later. Trust me, you’ll appreciate this small step when it’s time to serve.

2️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Grab your cavatappi pasta (those fun, spiral-shaped noodles are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce). Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, toss in the pasta, and cook it just until al dente. This should take about 7–8 minutes, but always double-check your package directions. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole, and no one wants that. Once it’s done, drain it well and set it aside.

The Secret to That Velvety Sauce

3️⃣ Mix the Sauce

The heart of this casserole lies in its silky, flavorful sauce. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

2 cans of cream of chicken soup
2 cups of half & half
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

This blend of ingredients creates a sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and just a little herby—perfect for coating every bite of pasta. Make sure to stir until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Personal Note: A Tip for Perfection

If you’re like me and enjoy a little extra zing, feel free to add another teaspoon of Dijon mustard. It brightens the dish and enhances that classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor. Not a fan of tangy? Stick to the recipe as written—it’s still absolutely delicious.

Assembling the Casserole and Tips for Success

Now that we’ve prepped the essentials, it’s time to bring everything together into one mouthwatering dish. This step is where the magic happens—combining tender pasta, creamy sauce, and flavorful ingredients for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Building Layers of Flavor

4️⃣ Combine the Ingredients

Take your smooth, creamy sauce and stir in the stars of the dish:

3 cups of shredded Swiss cheese
2 cups of rotisserie chicken, diced
The cooked cavatappi pasta from earlier.

Using rotisserie chicken is a game-changer here. It’s already cooked, tender, and flavorful, which saves you tons of time. If you prefer to cook your own chicken, you can dice up baked or grilled chicken breast instead. Stir everything together until the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken.

5️⃣ Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it out into an even layer. This ensures every portion gets an equal share of that cheesy, creamy goodness.

Creating the Crispy Topping

6️⃣ Prepare the Topping

A casserole isn’t complete without a golden, crispy topping that adds texture and a little extra flavor. Here’s how to make it:

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon melted butter with ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.

The buttery breadcrumbs combined with nutty Parmesan create the perfect crunchy finish for your casserole. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top, covering the entire surface.

7️⃣ Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake it for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Resist the urge to dive in immediately; letting it cool for about 5 minutes will make it easier to serve.

Helpful Tips for Success

Cheese Choices Matter: While Swiss cheese is classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu, feel free to substitute Gruyère, Havarti, or even a sharp white cheddar if you want a different flavor profile. Each will bring its own delicious twist to the dish.
Don’t Skip the Topping: The crunchy topping adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy casserole. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding crushed Ritz crackers or even seasoned Italian breadcrumbs instead of panko.
Make It Your Own: This casserole is super versatile. Add in some diced ham for a more traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor, or toss in steamed broccoli for an extra veggie boost.

Variations to Try

If you’re cooking for picky eaters or just want to shake things up, here are some fun variations to keep in mind:

Ham It Up: Add 1 cup of diced ham for that classic Chicken Cordon Bleu twist. It pairs beautifully with the Swiss cheese.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and spinach. You’ll still get a hearty, satisfying casserole with loads of flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or top with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

FAQ and Conclusion

Now that your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is golden, bubbly, and ready to serve, let’s answer some common questions to make sure you’re fully prepared to enjoy this delicious dish. Plus, I’ll share some parting thoughts to inspire you to make this casserole again and again!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble everything up to the point of adding the topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, add the topping, and bake as directed.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. For smaller portions, you can microwave them in 1-minute increments until hot.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Prepare the casserole without the topping and let it cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake.

4. Can I use different pasta shapes?

Definitely! While cavatappi works great for holding the sauce, other short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni will also work well. Just avoid thin or delicate pasta that might overcook in the casserole.

5. What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a loaf of crusty bread. For something lighter, try steamed green beans or a fresh fruit salad on the side.

6. Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

Sure! Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, and swap the half & half with plant-based cream or milk for a dairy-free option. You can also use low-fat cheese and cream soup for a lighter version.

7. What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

No problem! Gruyère, Havarti, or Monterey Jack are great substitutes. Each brings its own unique flavor while maintaining the creamy, cheesy vibe of the dish.

Conclusion: A Casserole to Keep Coming Back To

There you have it—a cozy, creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that’s perfect for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck with friends, or a meal prep idea for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to impress.

The best part? This casserole is a canvas for creativity. Add ham, toss in some veggies, or play with different cheeses to make it your own. It’s comforting, versatile, and packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, go ahead and give this recipe a try! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—did you add your own twist or stick to the classic version? Drop a comment below and share your experience. And don’t forget to snap a picture for Instagram—tag me so I can see your masterpiece!