Let me tell you about a comforting dish that has become a staple in my kitchen: Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles! This truly fantastic creation combines the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with the ease of a one-pan meal. Growing up, my family used to have Chicken Cordon Bleu for special occasions, but I found a way to enjoy that delightful flavor without the fuss of rolling and breading. Plus, you get creamy, cheesy goodness all in one skillet—hello, weeknight dinner hero!
Every time I cook this dish, it takes me back to the cozy dinners we shared, laughing over stories while digging into hearty plates of food. It might sound fancy, but I promise you, it’s as easy as it is delicious. Your family will think you’ve spent all day slaving over the stove when really, it’s ready in under 30 minutes! So grab your apron and let’s dive in!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles?
- Chicken breast: I use about 1 lb of diced chicken breast for a tender, protein-packed base. You could easily use leftover rotisserie chicken if you’re in a pinch!
- Ham: About 1 cup of diced ham to bring that classic Cordon Bleu flavor—smoky and savory all in one bite!
- Egg noodles: These cook quickly and add a hearty component. I love using egg noodles because they hold the creamy sauce so well.
- Chicken broth: A robust 2 cups helps to infuse flavor into the dish—it’s the liquid gold here! Homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s tasty.
- Heavy cream: At 1 cup, this adds a luxurious creaminess that makes everything feel indulgent.
- Swiss cheese: Use 1 cup of shredded Swiss for that melty, cheesy finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, Gruyère adds a nice twist too!
- Breadcrumbs: (optional) If you want that extra crunch, about 1/2 cup works wonders sprinkled on top once baked.
- Olive oil: Just 2 tablespoons to sauté the chicken and infuse it with a lovely flavor.
- Garlic and onion powder: One teaspoon each to sprinkle in that comforting depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Always to taste—these little guys are the backbone of flavor!
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and used as a garnish for a fresh pop of color and freshness.
- Frozen peas: About 1 cup for a quick veggie side or to toss in for added color and sweetness!
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles Good for You?
This dish is definitely a treat for the taste buds and can definitely be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet! The chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, while the ham adds a punch of flavor without too much fuss. However, keep in mind that the heavy cream and Swiss cheese contribute to its rich and hearty texture, which means this isn’t your lightest option. If you’re looking for a healthier play, you might try substituting the heavy cream with a lighter milk or a plant-based cream, but I can’t promise it’ll be quite as indulgent! And serving it alongside a vibrant green salad could make up for the richness too!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup frozen peas (for serving)
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles?
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s warmed through and delicious.
- Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer—this is where all that flavor begins!
- Introduce the 8 oz egg noodles to the skillet, stirring everything to combine. Cover the skillet and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
- Once the noodles are ready, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese until it’s all melted and creamy.
- If you want a golden, crispy topping, take the mixture out of the skillet and transfer it to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, then pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until it’s all golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and don’t forget those vibrant frozen peas either on the side or mixed right in!
A Sprinkle of Magic
- For added flavor, try mixing in a dash of Dijon mustard into the sauce for that extra tanginess!
- If you want to pack in more veggies, feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach or broccoli—never hurts to get some greens in!
- This recipe is wonderfully adaptable—substituting Gruyère or provolone for Swiss cheese can lead to deliciously different results. Play around with it!
- Don’t skip the breadcrumbs if you want that delightful crunch—just watch them closely in the oven!
So there you have it—the key to transforming a classic dish into a quick and easy skillet meal. I promise this Chicken Cordon Bleu Skillet Noodles recipe will become a go-to in your home as much as it is in mine! Make it, enjoy it, and do share your twists and experiences—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!
