There’s something magical about combining two beloved dishes into one unforgettable meal. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve always been drawn to recipes that bring together bold flavors and comforting textures. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles recipe with you. It’s a twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, but with a fun, noodle-filled twist that makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
This dish is everything you love about Chicken Cordon Bleu—tender chicken, smoky ham, and gooey cheese—but with the added comfort of pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: The star of the dish, chicken breast provides a lean and tender base. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and even cooking.
Ham: Smoked ham adds a salty, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Opt for thick-cut ham slices for a more robust flavor and texture.
Egg noodles: These wide, flat noodles are ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce. They cook quickly and have a comforting, hearty texture that works beautifully in this dish.
Cheese: A combination of Swiss and mozzarella cheese creates the perfect meltiness and flavor. Swiss cheese pays homage to the classic Cordon Bleu, while mozzarella adds that irresistible stretchy quality.
Heavy cream: This forms the base of the creamy sauce, giving it a rich and luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the creaminess won’t be quite the same.
Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a tangy, slightly spicy note that balances the richness of the cream and cheese.
Chicken broth: This enhances the savory flavor of the sauce and helps create the perfect consistency.
Garlic and onion: These aromatics build the foundation of flavor for the dish. Fresh garlic and finely chopped onion add depth and complexity.
Butter and olive oil: Used for sautéing, this combination ensures the chicken and aromatics cook evenly without burning.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and paprika are essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the ham.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup thick-cut smoked ham, diced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Ham and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the diced ham. Stir in the shredded Swiss and mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook them al dente so they hold up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Customize the cheese: If you’re not a fan of Swiss, try Gruyère or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add veggies: Spinach, peas, or mushrooms can be great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Double the recipe: This dish reheats well, so make extra for leftovers!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of combining the noodles and sauce, then store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the oven before serving.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese, though the dish will be less rich.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey breast works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.