Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is a delightful twist on two classic dishes that brings together the best of both worlds. Imagine the savory flavors of tender chicken, smoky ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a fun and convenient way to enjoy a beloved meal. The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu trace back to Switzerland, where it was first created as a gourmet dish, while Stromboli hails from Italy, known for its delicious stuffed bread. By combining these two culinary traditions, Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli has become a favorite for families and gatherings alike, thanks to its irresistible taste and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 package (1 lb) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your Stromboli bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust. 2. While the oven is heating, take your pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken into thin strips, about 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook quickly and evenly. 3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips to the skillet. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. 4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. You can check this by cutting into a piece; it should be white all the way through. 5. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle when assembling the Stromboli.

Preparing the Dough

6. If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, take it out of the package and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out. If you’re making your own dough, prepare it according to your recipe and let it rise as needed. 7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Make sure it’s even in thickness, about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface and on the dough.

Assembling the Stromboli

8. Once the dough is rolled out, it’s time to layer the fillings. Start by spreading the cooked chicken evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch border around the edges. 9. Next, sprinkle the diced ham over the chicken. This adds a delicious salty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. 10. Now, it’s time for the cheese! First, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the ham, followed by the mozzarella cheese. Make sure to distribute the cheese evenly so every bite is cheesy and delicious. 11. Once all the fillings are in place, carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling. Start with the long sides, folding them inwards, and then roll the dough from the bottom up to create a log shape. Make sure to tuck in the ends to seal the filling inside. 12. Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent it from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Baking the Stromboli

13. Before baking, brush the top of the Stromboli with the beaten egg. This will give it a beautiful golden color and a nice shine when it’s done baking. 14. Using a sharp knife, make a few slits on the top of the Stromboli. This allows steam to escape while it bakes and helps prevent it from bursting open. 15. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the Stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t over-bake. 16. Once it’s done, remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

Serving the Stromboli

17. After the Stromboli has cooled slightly, use a sharp knife to slice it into thick pieces, about 1-2 inches wide. This makes for perfect serving sizes and allows everyone to enjoy a piece. 18. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli recipe, I can’t emphasize enough why it’s a must-try for your next meal. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a golden, crispy crust, creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, a fresh garden salad, or even some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding your favorite ingredients to the mix—think sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of Italian herbs for an extra kick. The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you add your own twist? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print