Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini – a delightful fusion of two classic dishes that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake combines the flavors of chicken cordon bleu with the comforting goodness of tetrazzini, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for satisfying cravings and impressing guests alike. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups ham, chopped
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
- 3/4 cup Swiss cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the chopped chicken, ham, cooked spaghetti, and grated Swiss cheese to the sauce, stirring until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Add the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until evenly coated.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping to make this dish gluten-free.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or provolone for a unique flavor profile.
- Enhance with Herbs: Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce for an extra burst of freshness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken? A: Yes, rotisserie chicken can be used as a convenient and flavorful option in this recipe. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce as directed.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake, then proceed with baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Instead, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze it. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes instead of spaghetti? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a fun twist on this recipe.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
- Use heavy cream and chicken stock for the sauce to keep it keto-friendly.
- Replace the Panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the topping.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of spaghetti used in the recipe and increase the amount of chicken and ham for a higher protein, lower carb option.
- Use a combination of cauliflower florets and spaghetti squash in place of the pasta to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Serve the casserole with a side of mixed greens or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
Savor the rich flavors and comforting textures of our Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken and ham, and cheesy topping, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
