If you love the crispy, cheesy goodness of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu but want something easier (and, dare I say, even cozier?), then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is about to become your new favourite comfort meal! It’s everything you love about the original—juicy chicken and melty cheese—baked into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that’s ridiculously simple to make.
I kept things fuss-free, using a rich homemade sauce, a golden, crunchy topping, and just the right mix of flavours to make every bite irresistible. Oh, and did I mention how easy it is to prep ahead or freeze for later? Yep, this one’s a winner. So, grab your baking dish and keep reading—you won’t want to miss my tips for making this casserole next-level delicious!
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Pasta
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is packed with all the flavours you love—just in a way, that’s way easier (and way cheesier)! Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:
The Core Ingredients
- Chicken – Cooked and chopped (rotisserie chicken works like a charm!). You want juicy, tender pieces that soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Pasta – A sturdy shape like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds onto all that creamy sauce.
- Smoked Turkey – Diced or sliced into little bites of smoky, savory perfection. This adds depth of flavor while keeping it light.
- Cheese – Swiss cheese is the classic pick, but let’s be real—gruyère, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar will work beautifully.
- The Sauce – A rich, creamy blend of butter, flour, broth, milk, and Dijon mustard for that signature Chicken Cordon Bleu zing.
- Breadcrumb Topping – A buttery, crispy topping to mimic that golden, crunchy exterior of the original dish. (Trust me, this is a must!)
Want to Mix It Up? Try These Variations!
- Swap the Pasta – Shells, farfalle, or even egg noodles work great.
- Go Extra Cheesy – Mix in some parmesan or Monterey Jack for even more gooey goodness.
- Amp Up the Flavor – Add a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Love cheesy pasta dishes? Try this Easy One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe for another quick and satisfying dinner!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
This casserole is as easy to mix, layer, and bake! Here’s how to make it:
1. Cook Your Pasta
Boil your pasta just until al dente (it’ll keep cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it!). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in some flour to make a quick roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to keep it silky smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, seasonings, and a generous handful of cheese. Melt it all together into a luscious, cheesy sauce.
Pro Tip: If your sauce looks too thick, add a splash of warm milk or broth to thin it out!
3. Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, Smoked Turkey, and that creamy sauce.
- Transfer everything to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on top (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese, right?).
4. Add the Crunch!
Mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, then sprinkle it evenly over the top. This gives you that perfect crispy bite!
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Let it cool for a few minutes (if you can resist digging in right away!), then grab a fork and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, crispy bite.
Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
Want to make sure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time? Here are a few pro tips to keep everything juicy, creamy, and cheesy—just the way it should be!
How to Prevent Dry Chicken
- Use pre-cooked chicken – Rotisserie chicken is your best friend! It’s already tender and flavorful, so you won’t have to worry about it drying out in the oven.
- Don’t overbake – Since the chicken is already cooked, the casserole just needs to heat through and get golden on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out!
- Mix with the sauce – Tossing the chicken in the creamy sauce before layering it in the casserole helps lock in moisture.
Ensuring the Sauce is Smooth and Creamy
- Whisk, whisk, whisk! – When making the roux, stir constantly to avoid lumps. No one wants a clumpy sauce!
- Add liquids slowly. Pour in the broth and milk gradually while whisking; this keeps things silky and smooth.
- Melt the cheese off heat – Once your sauce is ready, remove it from the heat before stirring in the cheese. This prevents a grainy texture.
Choosing the Best Cheese for a Rich, Flavorful Dish
- Swiss cheese is the classic choice – It has that signature nutty, melty goodness.
- Gruyère = fancy & flavorful – If you want a deeper, richer taste, this is the way to go.
- Cheddar for extra sharpness – It’s not traditional, but it adds a bold, cheesy kick!
- Mix it up! – Combining cheeses (like Swiss + mozzarella) gives you the best melt and flavour.
What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This dish is rich and creamy, so the perfect sides will help balance things out!
Best Side Dishes
- A fresh salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness like a dream.
- Roasted vegetables – Think asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli—something simple and slightly charred.
- Garlic bread – Because who doesn’t love soaking up that extra creamy sauce with buttery, toasty bread?
Beverage Pairings
- Sparkling water with lemon – Refreshing and light so that it won’t overpower the dish.
- Iced tea – A great non-alcoholic option with just the right amount of contrast.
- White grape juice or apple cider – A sweet, crisp sip that pairs well with the cheese flavours.
Pair this comforting casserole with a fresh and crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwich for a well-balanced meal!
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
Do you have leftovers or want to prep ahead? Here’s how to keep your casserole fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy anytime!
Storing Leftovers
- Cool completely before storing – Prevents condensation and a soggy casserole.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
Best Reheating Methods
- Oven (for a crispy topping!) – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave (quick & easy!) – Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce from separating.
- Skillet (for small portions!) – Add a splash of milk, stir, and heat over low until warmed through.
📌 Pro Tip: If your casserole looks dry when reheating, mix in a little milk or broth to bring back the creaminess!
Freezing Instructions
- To Freeze Before Baking: Assemble but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Bake from Frozen: No need to thaw! Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden.
- To Freeze After Baking: Let the casserole cool completely, store it in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until hot.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 ounces pasta penne, rigatoni, or rotini
- 1 cup Smoked turkey diced (for that savory, smoky touch)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese or gruyère, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional, for added flavor
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a smoky touch
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Slowly add chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and paprika, then mix in ½ cup of cheese.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta, chicken, smoked turkey, and creamy sauce together.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and evenly spread over the casserole.
- Cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra cheesiness, mix in some parmesan or Monterey Jack.
- Swap pasta for egg noodles or shells for a different texture.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy, and irresistible pasta dishes, you’ll love our Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
What to serve with cordon bleu casserole?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole pairs well with light and fresh sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or mashed potatoes complement the creamy, cheesy flavors. A simple lemon vinaigrette or tangy coleslaw can also balance the richness of the dish.
How long does chicken cordon bleu last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, chicken cordon bleu casserole lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess. Reheat in the oven for best texture or in the microwave for convenience.
Do casseroles have pasta?
Not all casseroles contain pasta, but many do, as it helps create a hearty, filling dish. Classic casseroles often feature layers of meat, vegetables, cheese, and sauce, with pasta or rice acting as a base. In this recipe, pasta adds texture and helps absorb the creamy sauce.
What dessert goes with chicken cordon bleu?
A light, refreshing dessert like lemon sorbet, fruit tarts, or vanilla bean panna cotta pairs well with the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. For a more indulgent option, crème brûlée or a classic chocolate mousse provides a satisfying contrast. A simple shortbread cookie or berry parfait can also offer a delightful finish.
How long is cooked pasta good for in the fridge?
Cooked pasta lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. If mixed with sauce, its shelf life may be slightly shorter, depending on the ingredients. To maintain the best texture, reheat with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.
Can you prepare chicken cordon bleu in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If freezing, prepare the dish but do not bake it—wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What are the ingredients in cordon bleu?
Traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu consists of chicken breast and Swiss cheese, rolled together, breaded, and fried or baked. A creamy Dijon-based sauce is often served alongside for added flavor. In casserole form, these elements are layered with pasta, a creamy sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
What does cordon bleu mean literally?
The phrase “cordon bleu” translates to “blue ribbon” in French, historically symbolizing excellence and high culinary achievement. It originally referred to the prestigious Order of the Holy Spirit, whose members wore a blue sash. Over time, it became associated with top-tier cooking, particularly in French cuisine.
What type of cuisine is chicken cordon bleu?
Chicken Cordon Bleu is considered French-inspired cuisine, though its origins are debated, with ties to both Switzerland and Austria. The dish follows the classic European technique of stuffing and breading meat before cooking. While influenced by French culinary traditions, it has been widely adapted in American and global cuisines.
Is chicken cordon bleu high in protein?
Yes, Chicken Cordon Bleu is high in protein, primarily from the chicken breast. A single serving typically contains 25–40 grams of protein, depending on portion size and preparation. However, it can also be high in fat due to the cheese and breading, making balance key for a nutritious meal.
Why is cordon bleu so famous?
Chicken Cordon Bleu is famous for its rich, indulgent flavors and crispy, golden exterior, making it a comforting and elegant dish. Its versatility—being served as a rolled entrée, fried cutlet, or baked casserole—adds to its popularity. Additionally, its association with fine dining and French culinary prestige has made it a well-loved classic worldwide.