Imagine a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting sauce. That’s right, we’re diving headfirst into the delightful world of Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta, an irresistible combination of flavors that will have you dreaming about your next bowl long after the last bite. This dish is perfect for those nights when your cravings are high but your energy is low—simply boil some pasta and let the magic happen.
Picture this: you’re in your kitchen, the aroma of melting cheese wafts through the air as you prepare to indulge in a plate of Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta. It’s like a warm hug after a long day! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining friends, this pasta recipe shines on every occasion. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
- This incredible Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds—even my picky cousin who typically avoids anything green!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but feel free to adjust based on how many guests you have.
Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works best; it adds just the right amount of savory goodness.
Swiss Cheese: Go for the real deal; its nutty flavor melts beautifully into the sauce and pasta.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce that luscious richness we all crave; don’t skimp on it!
Pasta: I recommend penne or fusilli; their shapes hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch; choose firm cloves for optimal flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top elevates everything with its salty goodness.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds depth and warmth—perfect for cozy dinners.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors—don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside but save about 1 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 3-4 diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 6-8 minutes.
Add Garlic: Once your chicken is cooked, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves into the skillet. Sauté until fragrant—around 30 seconds—being careful not to burn it (nobody likes burnt garlic).
Create the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with Italian seasoning into your skillet. Stir well to combine everything as it simmers gently for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Cheese & Ham: Stir in 8 ounces of Swiss cheese along with 8 ounces of sliced ham. Mix everything until melted and creamy. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching desired consistency.
Toss Everything Together: Finally, add cooked penne pasta directly into your creamy sauce mixture. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated in that cheesy goodness; serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Now go ahead and indulge in this cheesy masterpiece! Your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know About Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
- This showstopping Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, sear the chicken first while boiling the pasta. Cook the sauce simultaneously to save time and maximize flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or use gluten-free pasta. Add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
- This professional-quality Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
There was a time when my Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta became legendary at potlucks; one friend even claimed it could win awards! I learned that using fresh herbs made all the difference.
FAQ
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta?
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines tender chicken breast, ham, and pasta in a rich sauce inspired by the classic French recipe. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
How do I make this dish healthier?
To make Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta healthier, opt for whole wheat pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of regular pasta. You can also use less cheese and add more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
What pairs well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta?
Pair this delicious dish with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or steamed vegetables on the side. A glass of white wine also complements its rich flavors beautifully.
Conclusion for Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
In summary, Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of flavor and nostalgia. By following these tips, you can ensure perfect results every time. Customize as you wish, store leftovers wisely, and enjoy this delightful dish that never fails to impress!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that marries tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a rich sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is simple yet delivers restaurant-quality flavors. With its inviting aroma and mouthwatering taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 8 oz thinly sliced deli ham
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Swiss cheese and ham until melted and creamy. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Toss cooked penne into the sauce until well coated. Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
