Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that brings the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu right to your dinner table? This One Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can savor the rich combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Dive in and discover how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish that will impress everyone!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken breast into bite-sized cubes, cutting ham into small pieces, and measuring out all other ingredients.
- Select a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. Place over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking spray or add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
- Add uncooked penne pasta and diced ham to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let simmer for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Check pasta for doneness - it should be tender but still have a slight bite. If liquid is not fully absorbed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes uncovered.
- Remove skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely.
- Gently stir the melted cheese into the pasta, ensuring even distribution. Let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can dice the chicken and ham ahead of time. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker when you're ready to eat.
- Choose the Right Pasta: While penne is recommended for its ability to hold sauce, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini for a fun twist.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the pasta to simmer gently with the lid on. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the pasta cooks evenly.
- Cheese Variations: If you're not a fan of Swiss cheese, try using Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile that still melts beautifully.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish's flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the taste even further.
- Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 130mg
