Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole

Looking for an easy and delicious dinner recipe that your family will love? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole is a perfect choice! It’s got all the classic flavors of the popular dish but without all the fuss.

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Growing up, there were certain dishes that seemed super ‘fancy’ and never made an appearance at our house.

Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those dishes.

I remember going to an event during high school where it was the main dish.

I could hardly contain my excitement at finally tasting this entree.

While I enjoyed it well enough, we’ll just say that the actual experience at that event did not measure up to the hype I’d created in my mind.

In all fairness, large catered events where they try to keep things warm for hours will always struggle to be exceptional.

Fast forward and now this dish no longer seems unattainable.

You can purchase ready-made entrees at the store.

Better yet, make it at home in a ‘deconstructed’ manner so you’ll get the merging of flavors with less hassle.

The creamy sauce, tender chicken, savory ham, and cheesy pasta make for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu and Where Did It Come From?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that typically consists of a chicken breast that has been pounded thin, then stuffed with ham and cheese (usually Swiss or Gruyere).

The chicken breast is then rolled up and coated in breadcrumbs before being fried or baked until golden brown and crispy.

The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the creamy richness of cheese and the salty tang of ham.

The history of food can be quite fascinating. It can also be a little on the elusive side as some dishes appear to have multiple origin studies.

Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those dishes where people disagree on its origins.

One story goes that a Swiss chef named Fritz Brenner came up with the dish in the 1940s while working at the fancy Hotel Carlton. Apparently, he had some leftovers lying around and decided to stuff chicken with cheese and ham, then bread and fry it. And voila, Chicken Cordon Bleu was born!

Another story says that the dish actually started in France and was originally called “côtelette de veau Cordon Bleu” (veal cutlet Cordon Bleu). “Cordon Bleu” means blue ribbon, which was worn by the highest order of knighthood in France. Later, the term came to represent culinary excellence.

Regardless of its exact origins, Chicken Cordon Bleu quickly became a popular dish in many countries, and has evolved over time to include variations such as pork, beef, or even fish, and can be baked or fried. Today, it remains a beloved classic dish that is enjoyed by many around the world.

Side Dish Suggestions

While the casserole combines the meat and starch, you will still need a side dish or two. Here are a few suggestions of what you can make to go with the Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots, make a great side dish for this pasta bake. Simply toss your favorite veggies with some olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast in the oven while the pasta bake is cooking.

Salad: A fresh salad is always a great option to serve alongside a hearty pasta dish. Try a simple side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, topped with a light vinaigrette. You could also go with a salad that has a burst of sweetness like Spinach Salad with Strawberries.

Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta. Slice up a baguette, brush with olive oil and minced garlic, and bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Alternatively, a good crusty bread with some butter or olive oil for dipping works.

Steamed Vegetables: If you prefer steamed vegetables, try serving some green beans or broccoli on the side. Simply steam until tender, then season with salt and pepper.

Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables are another delicious option. Try grilling some zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers and season with a sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. A favorite in our house is grilled asparagus.

All of these side dishes would make a tasty and nutritious addition to your dinner table.

Would you make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole for an everyday meal or save it for special occasions?