If you’re craving a comforting yet exciting meal, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe is the perfect dish to try. It takes the beloved flavors of classic chicken cordon bleu—tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss and mozzarella cheeses—and wraps them up in a golden, crispy pizza dough crust. The result is an irresistible stromboli that’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe transforms familiar ingredients into something truly special and fun to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor and texture, from juicy chicken to creamy cheese and perfectly seasoned dough. Gather these essentials, and you’re just steps away from a fantastic meal.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Choose fresh chicken breasts for tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly.
- Cooked ham, diced (1 cup): Adds a savory, slightly smoky bite that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Swiss cheese, shredded (1 cup): Offers a nutty and mild tanginess that melts beautifully inside.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Brings creaminess and stretchiness to the filling for that ooey-gooey texture.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, garlicky aroma that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Lends a mild smokiness and gorgeous color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For cooking the chicken evenly and adding a slight richness.
- Pizza dough (1 package): Whether store-bought or homemade, it’s the golden, crispy canvas for all that tasty filling.
- Egg, beaten (1): Used as an egg wash to give the stromboli a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh and vibrant garnish at the end.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to have it ready for baking. While the oven warms up, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips about half an inch thick. This size ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly in the skillet.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken strips. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful crust. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s no longer pink inside. Once fully cooked, chop the chicken into smaller pieces for an easy-to-spread filling.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, diced ham, Swiss cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Toss everything together so the flavors meld and each bite is packed with cheesy, meaty goodness. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed, balancing the salt and pepper.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
If you’re using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes first—it’ll be much easier to work with. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle around 12 by 16 inches, creating the perfect base to hold all your delicious filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Stromboli
Transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. Spoon your chicken and cheese mixture down the center, leaving about 2 inches of dough on each side free. Spread the filling evenly to ensure every slice gets plenty of those wonderful flavors.
Step 6: Fold, Seal, and Prepare for Baking
Fold the long edges of the dough over the filling and pinch the seams tightly to seal the stromboli completely. Fold the shorter ends over and pinch them well too—this keeps all the filling inside as it bakes. Cut a few small slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape, avoiding sogginess. Brush on the beaten egg for a gorgeous, golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the stromboli in your preheated oven and bake for around 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Remember to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and browning. Once done, let the stromboli rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—it helps the filling set and prevents it from spilling out.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the sliced stromboli to add a splash of color and a subtle freshness that brightens the rich, cheesy filling. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also elevate its presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads or roasted vegetables that balance the richness. Consider a tangy Caesar salad or steamed asparagus to bring contrast in texture and flavor. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter green beans are fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the stromboli into individual servings and arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces like honey mustard or a zesty marinara. You can also cut smaller bite-sized pieces for appetizers at parties, turning this family-friendly recipe into a crowd-pleaser finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal option for a quick next-day meal or lunchbox treat.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, assemble the stromboli but skip the baking step. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen—just add extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is crisp again and the filling is hot. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the crust soggy and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and mozzarella are classic choices for their meltability and mild flavors, you can experiment with Gruyère, provolone, or even a bit of sharp cheddar to add a personal twist to your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the regular pizza dough with your favorite gluten-free dough brand, you can enjoy this stromboli while accommodating gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the chicken, ham, and cheese filling ahead can save time on the day you bake. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one day, then assemble and bake your stromboli fresh for the best results.
What if I don’t have pizza dough? Can I use puff pastry?
Puff pastry can work in a pinch, but it will produce a different texture—lighter and flakier rather than the chewy, crispy crust pizza dough offers. Both are delicious, so feel free to try whichever you prefer.
How do I know when the stromboli is fully cooked?
The best way is to look for a golden-brown crust and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) if you have a meat thermometer. Also, the filling should be hot and bubbly when you slice into it.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s approachable, delicious, and perfect for satisfying those cheesy, savory cravings with a fun twist. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a go-to recipe to share with friends and family. So gather those ingredients and treat yourself to a comforting homemade stromboli that hits all the right notes.
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli offers a delicious twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu by incorporating tender chicken strips, savory ham, and a blend of Swiss and mozzarella cheeses wrapped in crispy pizza dough. This easy-to-make stromboli is perfect for a satisfying family dinner or casual gathering, combining familiar flavors with a comforting rolled-bread presentation baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of cooked ham, diced
Cheese
- 1 cup of Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right baking temperature while you prepare the stromboli.
- Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips approximately 1/2 inch thick for quick and even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Chop and Mix Filling: Chop the cooked chicken into smaller pieces and combine it in a bowl with diced ham, Swiss, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix thoroughly and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prepare the Dough: Let the store-bought pizza dough rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 12×16 inches in size.
- Assemble the Stromboli: Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the chicken and cheese mixture down the center, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Spread the filling evenly.
- Seal the Stromboli: Fold the long sides of the dough over the filling tightly, pinching the edges to seal. Fold the short ends over and pinch to secure completely.
- Prepare for Baking: Make a few slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape while baking. Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Place the stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until it turns golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the stromboli cool for 5-10 minutes. Slice into thick pieces, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Letting the pizza dough rest before rolling makes it easier to handle and prevents shrinking during baking.
- Feel free to substitute ham with turkey or prosciutto for a different flavor variation.
- You can add a layer of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise inside for an extra kick of flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
