A Culinary Delight: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
In the world of comfort food, there exists a myriad of dishes that promise warmth, satisfaction, and a taste that reminds you of home. Among these beloved recipes stands the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, a dish that combines the elegance of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu with the homey comfort of a cheesy, baked pasta. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a foray into a world of creamy, cheesy goodness, punctuated by the tender bites of chicken and the crisp, golden topping that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
The journey to this culinary delight begins with a simple, yet flavorful list of ingredients:
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups of half & half
- 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of season salt (preferably Lowry’s brand)
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 3 cups of Swiss cheese, shredded
- 2 cups of rotisserie chicken, diced
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup of plain panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese
Each component has been thoughtfully selected to contribute to the tapestry of flavors and textures that define this dish.
Directions:
The magic happens in the kitchen, where these ingredients come together to create something truly special.
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pasta: Cook the cavatappi pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, typically 7 to 8 minutes.
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, season salt, and black pepper. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, diced rotisserie chicken, and the drained pasta, ensuring every ingredient is fully incorporated.
- Assemble: Transfer this mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Topping: Mix melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and grated parmesan cheese in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the casserole to create a crunchy, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until you’re greeted with a golden, bubbly masterpiece.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before diving in, ensuring each serving is as perfect as the last.
Nutritional Information:
This dish serves six, with each serving packing a delicious 766 kcal. It’s a hearty meal that promises not just taste but a satisfying experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
The Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a testament to the power of combining simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something delicious but want the comfort of a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving this up for a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this casserole promises to deliver on flavor, comfort, and satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Embracing the essence of both Chicken Cordon Bleu and the beloved casserole, this recipe stands out as a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. With its easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, it’s an accessible gourmet experience that’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the cheesy, creamy delight that is the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole—a true culinary delight in the world of comfort food.