Imagine the combination of crispy golden crust, gooey melted cheese, savory ham, and tender chicken all rolled up into one irresistible dish. That’s what you get with this Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli. It’s a creative twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Whether you’re looking for a fun way to jazz up dinner or impress your family with something new, this recipe has you covered.
Inspired by the flavors of the traditional French dish, this stromboli is easier to make than it sounds and delivers big on taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual gathering. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that looks like it belongs on Pinterest but is totally doable in your own kitchen?
The Story Behind Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Chicken cordon bleu originates from Switzerland, where it evolved as a classic stuffed chicken dish featuring ham and cheese. It’s a dish that exudes elegance, but let’s be honest—it can be a bit labor-intensive. That’s where the stromboli twist comes in! By rolling all the best parts of chicken cordon bleu into pizza dough, you get the same amazing flavors without the hassle of pounding chicken breasts or breading them.
I first tried this recipe when I was brainstorming fun ways to make a meal that felt creative but didn’t require me to spend hours in the kitchen. With kids at home and a schedule that never seems to slow down, this recipe was a lifesaver. Plus, it’s super customizable—you can tweak the fillings based on what you have in the fridge or your family’s preferences.
It’s also a fantastic dish for colder months when comfort food reigns supreme. Imagine pulling this warm, cheesy stromboli out of the oven on a chilly evening—it’s like a hug in food form. And let’s not forget, it’s perfect for game nights or potlucks because it slices up beautifully and is easy to share.
Ingredients for Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
The ingredients for this recipe are simple but pack a powerful punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pizza dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, but homemade dough works wonderfully too.
- Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great option, or you can cook and shred your own chicken breasts.
- Sliced ham: Choose high-quality deli ham for the best flavor.
- Swiss cheese: The classic choice for cordon bleu, but you can substitute Gruyere or mozzarella.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that ties the flavors together.
- Egg wash: A mix of egg and water to give the crust a beautiful golden sheen.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor.
If you’re looking to make this gluten-free, simply swap out the pizza dough for a gluten-free version. Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and use more cheese and veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Don’t forget, the ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s a quick rundown of the equipment required to make this recipe:
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet works best for holding the stromboli.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the pizza dough evenly.
- Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.
- Sharp knife: To slice the stromboli before serving.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the stromboli from sticking to the baking sheet.
If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle works as a substitute. And for the pastry brush, a spoon will do in a pinch—just be gentle when spreading the egg wash.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, roughly 12×16 inches (30×40 cm).
- Add the mustard: Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space around the edges.
- Layer the fillings: Start with a layer of sliced ham, followed by shredded chicken, and finish with Swiss cheese.
- Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley over the fillings.
- Roll it up: Starting with one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Transfer to the baking sheet: Place the stromboli seam-side down on the parchment paper.
- Brush with egg wash: Mix one egg with a tablespoon of water and brush it over the stromboli.
- Bake: Place the stromboli in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and slice: Let the stromboli cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into pieces.
Keep an eye on the stromboli while it bakes—if the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is firm and golden, and the filling is bubbling slightly.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make it difficult to roll and seal the stromboli properly.
- Seal tightly: Pinch the seams well to avoid any cheese or filling escaping during baking.
- Chill the dough: If your dough is too warm, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before rolling it out—it’ll be easier to handle.
- Customize the flavors: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of paprika to mix things up.
If you’ve ever had trouble with soggy stromboli, try pre-cooking the chicken and patting the ham dry with paper towels. This helps keep the crust crispy and delicious.
Variations & Adaptations
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and ham, and load up on veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
- Spicy twist: Add a layer of pepper jack cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
- Breakfast stromboli: Swap the ham for cooked bacon and use scrambled eggs as a filling alongside the cheese.
One variation I’ve tried is adding caramelized onions to the mix—it’s ridiculously good and adds a hint of sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment; this recipe is super forgiving!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This stromboli is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Slice it into generous pieces and pair it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. If you’re serving it at a party, arrange the slices on a platter with some Dijon mustard or marinara sauce for dipping.
For leftovers, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave it for 30 seconds (though the oven will keep the crust crispier).
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional value per serving (approximately 1 slice):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
The combination of chicken and Swiss cheese provides a great source of protein and calcium, while the ham adds a savory punch. For a healthier twist, you can use whole-grain pizza dough or opt for reduced-fat cheese.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is a dinner recipe you’ll want to bookmark and make again and again. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting friends, this stromboli is sure to be a hit.
I love how this recipe combines comfort food vibes with a touch of creativity—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let me know how you customize it to make it your own!
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment below and share it with your friends. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your creations!
FAQs
Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, puff pastry works well and adds a flaky texture, but keep an eye on the baking time as it cooks faster.
Can I freeze the stromboli?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is your best bet for preserving the crispy crust—heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Gruyere, mozzarella, or even cheddar are great alternatives to Swiss cheese.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Most kids love the combination of ham, cheese, and chicken. You can even let them help roll the dough!