Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors, it’s made to please everyone at the table. With tender pasta enveloped in a rich sauce and loaded with chicken and broccoli, this dish offers a complete meal in one pan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pasta bake requires minimal hands-on time, making it a breeze to whip up on busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions; this dish fits any setting.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one casserole dish, cleanup is quick and easy—less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory taste of this chicken pasta bake.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start. These simple items will help you create the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Colander
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch casserole dish allows for even baking and makes serving easy.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Colander: Draining pasta and broccoli properly prevents excess water from making your bake soggy.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

• 8 oz. penne pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups broccoli (cut into small pieces)
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 20 oz. cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard (coarse mustard with seeds)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups chicken (cooked and shredded)
• 2 cups chicken ham (cooked and cut into small cubes)
• 2 cups Swiss cheese (shredded)

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking, add chopped broccoli florets to the boiling water.
3. Drain both the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, dijon mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add in the cooked chicken, chicken ham, cooked pasta, and broccoli to the sauce mixture.
2. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Fold in Swiss cheese gently.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the creamy pasta mixture into your prepared casserole dish.
2. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly in the center.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A creamy Caesar dressing with crunchy croutons adds a classic touch that complements the pasta bake well.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread smeared with garlic butter provides a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with cheese are a fun twist and easy to share.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Lightly steamed carrots, green beans, or asparagus add color and nutrients to your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that balances the richness of the pasta bake.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

To achieve the best results when making Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake, follow these handy tips for perfection.

• Bold seasoning: Use fresh herbs or extra spices to elevate flavors beyond the basics. This adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
• Creamy texture: Ensure your sauce is well-mixed before adding pasta and chicken. This guarantees every bite is creamy and flavorful.
• Even baking: Cover the dish while baking for part of the time to ensure even cooking, then uncover it for browning during the last few minutes.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook the penne just until al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Experiment with cheeses: While Swiss cheese is traditional, try mixing in Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

A well-rounded meal can be achieved by pairing your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with rich pasta.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty bake.
3. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the pasta bake.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini slices present a healthy option that adds color and flavor to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a crisp freshness that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits offers a sweet finish that cleanses the palate after your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and even the best recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake.

• Skipping the al dente stage: Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook your penne until al dente for the best results.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can prevent your dish from baking evenly. Ensure your chicken and other ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not seasoning enough: Flavor is key! Don’t forget to taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning as needed for a more flavorful dish.
• Baking without foil initially: Covering your casserole helps it cook evenly and prevents drying out. Avoid leaving it uncovered during the first part of baking.
• Rushing the cooling time: Allowing your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake to cool slightly before serving will help with cutting and serving, ensuring a neater presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake that might help you.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While penne works well, feel free to substitute with rotini or fusilli for a fun twist.

What if I don’t have chicken ham?

You can replace chicken ham with more cooked chicken or turkey, which will give you similar flavors.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute dairy products like sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a delicious dairy-free option.

Can I add vegetables to this Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or peas would make great additions and boost nutrition.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The pasta bake should be bubbly in the center and lightly golden on top when it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake is not only creamy and comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or switch up the protein as desired. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!