One Pan Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pan Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that brings all the classic flavors of the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu—tender chicken, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese—into a simple, weeknight-friendly pasta. Cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup, this rich and cheesy meal is perfect for busy families who want something hearty without the hassle.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastshamdijon mustardgarliconionswiss cheeseparmesan cheesepenne pastachicken brothmilkbutterolive oilblack peppersaltbreadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, then transfer to a plate.

In the same pan, add butter and sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Stir in diced ham and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Add the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir in Dijon mustard and bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in Swiss and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

(Optional) Top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Add frozen peas or steamed broccoli for extra vegetables.

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Top with crushed Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it during the final step to warm through.

Do I need to boil the pasta separately?

No, the pasta cooks right in the pan with the sauce for convenience.

What type of ham works best?

Deli-style ham, thick-cut, or leftover baked ham all work well.

Can I skip the broiling step?

Yes, the breadcrumb topping is optional.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli works great.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, creamy texture and mild flavors.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it and reheat before serving; it reheats well.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Shred the cheese yourself and add it gradually off the heat.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, but the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.

Is Dijon mustard necessary?

It enhances the flavor, but you can use regular mustard or omit for a milder version.

Conclusion

One Pan Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is a creamy, satisfying twist on a classic dish—made quicker and easier for weeknight cooking. With tender chicken, smoky ham, and melty cheese, all in a rich sauce over pasta, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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