How do I cook chicken breast perfectly for chicken cordon bleu pasta?

To cook chicken breast for chicken cordon bleu pasta, season it with salt and pepper, then bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or poach in simmering water until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding to keep it juicy and tender.

Can I freeze chicken cordon bleu pasta, and how should I store it?

Yes, you can freeze chicken cordon bleu pasta. For an unbaked casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. For cooked leftovers, cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What is the best way to reheat chicken cordon bleu pasta without losing texture?

Reheat chicken cordon bleu pasta in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain the crispy breadcrumb topping. For smaller portions, microwave on medium power, stirring halfway, but note the topping may soften.

What type of pasta should I use for chicken cordon bleu pasta?

Use pasta shapes with ridges or crevices like penne, rotini, farfalle, or shells. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well and prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the dish, ensuring each bite has a balanced mix of pasta and sauce.

Can I add vegetables or substitute ingredients in chicken cordon bleu pasta?

Yes, adding vegetables like peas or fresh spinach adds freshness and color. You can also swap Swiss cheese for Gruyere or provolone for a different flavor. Additionally, turkey or prosciutto can replace ham if preferred, making the dish versatile to suit your tastes.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Recipe With Crispy Ham And Sauce

Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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