Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Crispy Ham

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

Imagine combining the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with creamy pasta for an easy meal right at home. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta dish stands out as a favorite because it’s simple to make, even on the busiest days. You’ll appreciate how the tender chicken, crispy ham, and rich cheese create a satisfying bite every time.

One reason to try this recipe is its ease of preparation, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The streamlined steps and minimal prep time mean you can have a delicious meal on the table fast without much hassle. Beyond convenience, this dish offers health benefits like lean protein from chicken that supports muscle health and provides essential vitamins.

It’s also versatile for different lifestyles; you can tweak it for gluten-free, low-calorie, or dairy-free diets by swapping ingredients. The distinctive flavor combines tender chicken, ham, and creamy cheese with perfectly cooked pasta, giving it a unique taste that feels special yet familiar. This makes it a go-to option for family dinners or gatherings.

To expand on its appeal, think about how this recipe aligns with your daily routine as a home cook. For busy parents, it offers a hearty meal that kids might enjoy due to its familiar flavors. Students and working professionals can prep it ahead for quick meals, while food enthusiasts will love experimenting with the ingredients.

Health and Dietary Perks

Nutritionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is packed with lean chicken breast that’s a great source of protein, helping you stay full and energized. According to the nutritional info, each serving has about 47 grams of protein, making it a balanced choice. You can check out more on Health Benefits of Chicken to see why it’s a smart pick for overall wellness.

Plus, its adaptability means everyone from seniors to newlyweds can enjoy it without much adjustment. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast looking for savory options or a diet-conscious individual watching calories, this recipe fits right in.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta shine. Each item plays a role in creating the creamy sauce and crispy ham elements that make the dish so tasty. Let’s break down what you’ll need for a perfect batch.

Start with fresh, high-quality components to ensure the best flavor. For instance, using penne pasta helps hold the sauce well, and seasoning the chicken properly enhances its taste. Here’s the full list of ingredients based on the recipe:

• 3 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cups sliced cooked chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
• 3/4 cup cubed fully cooked ham
• 3 tablespoons dry bread crumbs

Special Dietary Options

For those with specific needs, you can make adjustments easily. If you’re going vegan, swap chicken with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese and cream substitutes to keep the creamy texture. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta varieties that maintain the dish’s hearty feel. And for low-calorie options, replace heavy cream with low-fat milk and cut back on cheese while still enjoying the flavors.

Remember, fresh ingredients like garlic and herbs can elevate the dish. This setup not only makes the recipe straightforward but also allows for personalization based on what you have in your kitchen.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is straightforward and fun, turning simple ingredients into a comforting meal. Follow these steps to get that creamy sauce and crispy ham just right. Start by preheating your oven and getting everything ready for a smooth cooking process.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain it.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Add 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese, onion powder, garlic salt, and pepper, then stir to combine everything well.
3. Mix the drained pasta with the sliced cooked chicken breasts, crumbled cooked bacon, and cubed fully cooked ham. Stir in the creamy sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly, then transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese and dry bread crumbs on top.
4. Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes until heated through. If you’re using ceramic, porcelain, or enameled cast iron dishes, broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a crispier topping, but skip broiling with glass dishes to avoid cracking.

This method keeps the pasta al dente and the sauce creamy, ensuring a delightful texture. For more chicken recipes, check out our guide on creamy chicken pasta variations that pair well with this dish.

Tips for Success

To make this even better, soften the cream cheese ahead of time for easier blending. If the sauce looks lumpy, keep whisking as it heats. Cooking the chicken by baking, grilling, or poaching until it reaches 165°F ensures it’s tender and safe. Once prepared, the total prep time is about 25 minutes with a bake time of around 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

You might also try serving it with sides like a green salad, as mentioned in our tips, to balance the richness. This recipe’s flexibility lets you explore more, like adding vegetables for extra nutrition.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

One of the best things about Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is how easy it is to tweak for different tastes and needs. For protein swaps, you can replace chicken breast with turkey slices or tofu to make it plant-based. This keeps the dish hearty while fitting various dietary preferences.

When it comes to vegetables and seasonings, try swapping garlic for shallots or adding fresh herbs like thyme for a new twist. For the sauce, use dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate those avoiding dairy. Incorporating veggies such as spinach or mushrooms not only boosts nutrients but also adds a fresh crunch.

These changes help make the recipe inclusive for everyone from busy parents to seniors. Experimenting with these options can turn a simple meal into something personalized and exciting.

Mastering Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, level up your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta with some pro techniques. For instance, pound the chicken breasts thinner so they cook evenly and quickly, giving a juicy result every time. Using a non-stick skillet helps achieve that golden sear without sticking, enhancing the overall texture.

Flavor variations can include adding Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy kick or swapping ham for prosciutto for a more sophisticated taste. Presentation matters too; serve the pasta in a neat nest shape topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a visually appealing plate. If you’re planning ahead, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then store them for easy reheating later.

From our experience, adding vegetables like peas or spinach not only enhances color and freshness but also makes the dish more nutritious. For alternative pasta choices, rotini or farfalle work well and hold the sauce nicely. If you enjoy similar recipes, take a look at our chicken and vegetable bake for more ideas.

Remember, the key to great cooking is experimentation, so don’t hesitate to try these tips to make the dish your own.

How to Store Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta tasting fresh and safe to eat. After cooling it completely, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days, as per the recipe details. This helps maintain the creamy sauce and prevents spoilage.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish either baked or unbaked for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes to keep the breadcrumb topping crispy. While microwaving works, it might soften the texture, so the oven is preferred for the best results.

When meal prepping, store components separately to preserve flavors and textures until you’re ready to combine them. This method is great for working professionals who need quick meals during the week.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Contains dairy and poultry

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Description

🍗 Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta brings together creamy sauce and crispy ham for a comforting, indulgent meal.
🧀 This recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic dish with hearty pasta and savory bacon, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

3 cups uncooked penne pasta

2 cups heavy whipping cream

8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed

1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese divided

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

3 cups sliced cooked chicken breasts

3/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon

3/4 cup cubed fully cooked ham

3 tablespoons dry bread crumbs

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Instructions

1-Preheat the oven to 350°F and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain it.

2-In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Add 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese, onion powder, garlic salt, and pepper, then stir to combine everything well.

3-Mix the drained pasta with the sliced cooked chicken breasts, crumbled cooked bacon, and cubed fully cooked ham. Stir in the creamy sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly, then transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese and dry bread crumbs on top.

4-Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes until heated through. If you’re using ceramic, porcelain, or enameled cast iron dishes, broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a crispier topping, but skip broiling with glass dishes to avoid cracking.

Notes

🧀 Use penne pasta for sturdy texture that holds the sauce well.
🌡 Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier blending.
🥄 Continue whisking if sauce appears lumpy while heating.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling, Baking, Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 826 calories
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 1093 mg
• Fat: 56 grams
• Saturated Fat: 33 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 33 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 47 grams
• Cholesterol: 249 mg

Keywords: chicken cordon bleu pasta, creamy pasta bake, crispy ham pasta, comfort food pasta