This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, combining the flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese wrapped in a crispy pizza crust. It’s the perfect meal or appetizer that’s easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness. With a savory filling, crisp breadcrumbs on top, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this stromboli is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- 1 refrigerated pizza crust
- 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup ham, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Pizza Crust
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza crust on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12×10 inches. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread the Dijon Mustard
- Spread the ¼ cup Dijon mustard evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Layer the Filling
- Layer the shredded cooked chicken, thinly sliced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the mustard-coated pizza crust. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll the Stromboli
- Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll up the dough, tucking the ends under to seal. Pinch the seams to secure the roll. Place the seam side down on the baking sheet.
6. Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and melted butter. Brush the mixture over the top of the stromboli.
- In another small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the stromboli, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to the egg wash.
7. Bake the Stromboli
- Bake the stromboli in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the breadcrumbs are crispy.
8. Cool and Slice
- Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut the stromboli into slices and serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, but you can also use leftover chicken or quickly cook chicken breasts for this recipe.
- Dough Tip: If you prefer a homemade pizza dough, feel free to make your own, but a store-bought refrigerated pizza crust works perfectly for convenience.
- Cheese Substitutes: Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, but you can use Provolone or Gruyèrefor a different twist.
Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
1. Turkey Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- Substitute the chicken with turkey for a different flavor while keeping the ham and Swiss cheese. This version is great for using leftover turkey from holiday meals.
2. Spicy Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- Add a layer of spicy mustard or hot sauce to the filling for a kick. You can also mix in jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
3. Vegetarian Cordon Bleu Stromboli
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. The cheese and mustard remain the same to keep the rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this stromboli ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stromboli ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hoursbefore baking. Add the egg wash and breadcrumb topping just before baking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C)for about 10 minutes to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze the stromboli before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the egg wash and breadcrumbs, and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, wrap tightly and reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
A Delicious Twist on a Classic
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in an easy-to-make rolled pizza crust. The crispy Panko topping adds a delightful crunch, while the Dijon mustard gives the dish a tangy kick. Whether you serve it as a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this stromboli is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
