Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli takes the delicious flavors of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu and wraps them up in a crispy, golden crust. Filled with tender chicken, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and a tangy Dijon mustard layer, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or a fun, handheld meal. Whether served with a side of marinara or on its own, this stromboli is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few ingredients, you can create an easy and flavorful meal.
- Golden, Crispy Perfection: The combination of a buttery, breadcrumb topping and golden crust gives the stromboli a satisfying crunch.
- Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese make it a great option for everyone, even picky eaters!
- Perfect for Leftovers: You can easily use leftover chicken to prepare this dish, making it a time-saving recipe.
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- 1 refrigerated pizza crust – The base of your stromboli, ready to roll and bake.
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded – Tender chicken adds protein and flavor to the dish.
- ½ cup ham, thinly sliced – Savory ham complements the chicken and adds richness.
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded – Melty, slightly nutty cheese that binds everything together.
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard – A tangy layer that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs – Provides a crispy topping to the stromboli.
- 1 egg, beaten – Used to brush the top for a golden finish.
- 1 tbsp butter, melted – Adds richness and helps brown the breadcrumbs.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – A flavorful seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tsp dried parsley – For a fresh, herbal note and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Lay Out the Pizza Crust
Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to gently stretch the dough to fit the sheet, leaving some space at the edges for rolling.
3. Spread the Dijon Mustard
Evenly spread ¼ cup Dijon mustard over the pizza crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. The mustard will add a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese.
4. Layer the Filling
Next, layer the fillings on top of the mustard:
- Shredded chicken (1 ½ cups)
- Thinly sliced ham (½ cup)
- Shredded Swiss cheese (1 cup)
Distribute the ingredients evenly across the crust, ensuring each bite will have a perfect combination of flavors.
5. Roll the Stromboli
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the crust tightly around the fillings, ensuring the seam is pinched and sealed to hold everything inside.
6. Brush with Beaten Egg
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it generously over the top of the stromboli. This will give the crust a golden, shiny finish when baked.
7. Make the Panko Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp dried parsley. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well-coated with the butter and seasonings.
8. Top the Stromboli
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the rolled stromboli. This will create a flavorful, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender filling.
9. Bake the Stromboli
Place the stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. If you’re unsure, you can check by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean and the top should be beautifully crisp.
10. Let It Cool and Slice
Allow the stromboli to cool slightly before slicing it into rounds. This will help the filling set and make it easier to slice without spilling out. Serve warm!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- With Marinara Sauce: A side of marinara for dipping enhances the savory flavors of the stromboli and adds a fun Italian twist.
- As Part of a Meal: Serve alongside a light salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- For a Party: Slice into smaller pieces for easy serving at parties, gatherings, or game nights.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal, saving both time and effort.
- Customize the Fillings: Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese or additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a unique twist.
- Golden Finish: If the breadcrumbs aren’t as golden as you’d like, you can broil the stromboli for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pizza crust instead of store-bought?
Yes! If you prefer homemade dough, go ahead and use it. Just make sure it’s prepped and ready to go before you start layering the fillings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stromboli, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
You can substitute Swiss cheese with mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar if you prefer. Each cheese will bring a different flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli combines the rich flavors of a classic dish with the convenience and fun of a stromboli. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste, and with its crispy, golden crust and tender, cheesy filling, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether for a family dinner, party appetizer, or just a quick and comforting meal, this stromboli will not disappoint!