Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine the classic, comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu – that crispy, golden-brown chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese – all wrapped up in a warm, perfectly baked, pizza-like crust. It’s a culinary mashup that’s about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner.

While the exact origins of the Stromboli are debated, it’s generally accepted that this Italian-American baked delight emerged in the mid-20th century, possibly in Philadelphia. It’s a close cousin to the calzone, but distinguished by its rolled shape and the way the fillings are layered. Our Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli takes this concept and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

People adore Chicken Cordon Bleu for its rich, satisfying taste and the delightful contrast of textures. The crispy chicken, the salty ham, and the nutty Swiss create a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. By transforming it into a Stromboli, we’ve made it even more convenient and fun to eat. It’s perfect for a casual family meal, a potluck gathering, or even a game-day snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite sauces and seasonings. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with every bite!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 ounces thinly sliced cooked ham
• 8 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• For the Egg Wash:
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional Toppings:
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be old and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
5. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. I like to put mine in a slightly warmed oven (turned off!) to create a cozy environment.

Preparing the Chicken Filling:

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the chicken filling. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool slightly.

Assembling the Stromboli:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Try to keep the thickness even for consistent baking.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise.
5. Spread the mustard-mayo mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
6. Layer the ham slices over the mustard-mayo mixture, covering the entire surface.
7. Next, layer the Swiss cheese slices over the ham.
8. Sprinkle the cooked chicken evenly over the cheese.
9. If using, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken.
10. Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll up the dough tightly, like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal it well.
11. Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
12. Pinch the ends of the stromboli to seal them. You can also tuck the ends under slightly for a neater appearance.
13. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make several diagonal slits across the top of the stromboli. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the stromboli from bursting.

Baking the Stromboli:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash.
2. Brush the egg wash evenly over the top of the stromboli. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color.
3. If desired, sprinkle the stromboli with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the cheese to set up slightly and prevent it from oozing out everywhere.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a party, potluck, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. You can serve it with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for dipping. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella would all be delicious substitutes for Swiss cheese.
• Meat Variations: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts. You can also substitute the ham with prosciutto or turkey.
• Vegetable Additions: Add some sautéed mushrooms, onions, or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken filling or a drizzle of hot sauce to the mustard-mayo mixture for a spicy kick.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Dough Alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or puff pastry instead of making your own dough. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and impressive, look no further. We’ve taken the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu and transformed it into a shareable, portable masterpiece that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or even a potluck sensation. The combination of juicy chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a golden-brown, perfectly crisp crust, is simply irresistible. But what truly makes this stromboli a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere would be a fantastic substitute for Swiss, adding a nutty and slightly more complex flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and earthy goodness. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling or serve it with a side of Dijon mustard mixed with a touch of horseradish. Speaking of serving suggestions, this stromboli is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the stromboli, creating a perfectly balanced meal. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of creamy tomato soup for a comforting and satisfying combination, especially on a chilly evening. And for the ultimate indulgence, try dipping it in a warm, creamy cheese sauce – you won’t regret it! Don’t be intimidated by the thought of making your own stromboli. While it might seem a bit daunting at first, the process is actually quite straightforward, especially with our easy-to-follow instructions. And trust me, the end result is well worth the effort. The satisfaction of pulling a warm, cheesy, and flavorful stromboli out of the oven is simply unmatched. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! I truly believe that this Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli will become a new family favorite. It’s a dish that’s sure to bring smiles to faces and create lasting memories. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Any tips or tricks you’d like to share with other readers? Your feedback is invaluable and helps us all learn and grow as home cooks. So, go ahead, give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli a try – you won’t be disappointed! Happy baking! Print