When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally adored as Chicken Cordon Bleu. The combination of crispy chicken, savory chicken ham, and melty Swiss cheese has been a family favorite for years. But what if you could take that classic and give it a deliciously portable twist? Enter Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli—a dish that combines the best of both worlds. It’s everything you love about Chicken Cordon Bleu, wrapped up in a crispy, golden dough, ready to be sliced and devoured in bite-sized pieces.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual family gathering, or even as a party snack that will have everyone coming back for more. The beauty of this dish is not just in its incredible flavors but in how easy it is to make. Whether you use store-bought pizza dough or decide to roll up your sleeves and make your own from scratch, the preparation is simple and straightforward. Trust me, it’s so much easier than you think—and so much more satisfying than you’d expect.

In this first part, we’ll walk through the beginning steps of this delicious recipe, covering everything from preheating your oven to rolling out your dough. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat the Oven

Before you do anything else, get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). This is a critical step because it ensures that the stromboli will bake evenly and come out golden and crispy. While the oven is warming up, you can focus on getting your ingredients ready. I always like to line my baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make clean-up a breeze after baking. A little preparation upfront can save you a lot of time later.

2. Roll Out the Dough

Now that the oven is preheating, it’s time to work on the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle. Aim for a size of about 12×14 inches—this will give you enough space to create that perfect stromboli shape. I know it can be tempting to skip this step and just throw the dough on a baking sheet, but trust me, taking the time to roll it out properly ensures your stromboli has the right texture and the filling stays inside where it belongs.

If you’re using store-bought dough (which, let’s face it, most of us do for convenience), you’ll likely need to let it sit out for a few minutes to warm up and become more pliable. If you’re feeling ambitious and want to make your own dough, that’s great too! Just make sure it’s soft enough to stretch into the desired rectangle shape.

3. Prepare the Filling

Here comes the fun part: assembling all those savory fillings that will make this stromboli so irresistible. In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. This creamy and tangy sauce is going to form the base layer that coats your dough, giving every bite a zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. If you’re wondering whether the mayonnaise is really necessary, I’d say it’s totally optional. It adds a nice creaminess to the mix, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it.

Spread this mustard-mayo mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges. This ensures that your filling won’t spill out when you roll up the dough. I love how the mustard adds a subtle kick to the dish, but it’s not overpowering. It’s just enough to give it that little extra flavor boost.

Next, layer the chicken ham slices evenly over the mustard mixture. Chicken ham is a great choice for this recipe because it’s both light and flavorful. Plus, it gives you that classic “ham” flavor you’d expect from a Chicken Cordon Bleu, but without the heavy fat content. After you add the chicken ham, it’s time to go in with the Swiss cheese slices. These will melt beautifully and complement the chicken ham and chicken perfectly. And of course, we’re adding shredded chicken on top of the chicken ham and cheese for that juicy, protein-packed layer. The shredded chicken is what makes this stromboli hearty and satisfying.

To finish up the filling, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Mozzarella is gooey, cheesy perfection, and it will melt into everything, holding the whole stromboli together.

4. Roll the Stromboli

Now that you’ve got all your filling layers in place, it’s time to roll everything up into a beautiful, savory log. Starting from one long edge of the dough, carefully begin to roll it into a tight cylinder. As you roll, make sure to keep the filling secure. The goal here is to form a log that’s compact enough to hold together but not so tight that the dough tears or the filling squeezes out.

Once you’ve rolled the dough all the way up, pinch the edges and ends to seal the stromboli. This is crucial for keeping everything inside as it bakes. When you’re done, place the stromboli seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, you can give it a little decorative touch by scoring the top of the dough with a sharp knife in a few places. It’s not necessary, but it can make your stromboli look a bit more polished.

What Makes This Recipe So Special?

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli takes all the flavors you love from the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu and wraps them up in a portable, easy-to-eat package. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want to serve up something hearty and flavorful, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and mustard gives you the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors in every bite. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about the crispy, golden dough on the outside.

How to Finish Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli to Perfection

Welcome back! Now that your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is all rolled up and ready to go, it’s time to take it to the next level. The real magic happens in the oven, where the dough will bake to a golden, crispy perfection, and the filling will melt together into a glorious, gooey masterpiece. Let’s dive into the rest of the steps that will bring your stromboli from great to absolutely unforgettable.

5. Brush with Egg Wash

Before you send your stromboli into the oven, you want to give it that beautiful golden finish. This is where the egg wash comes in. In a small bowl, beat one egg and then brush it generously over the surface of your stromboli. This step is so important because the egg wash helps the dough brown evenly and gives it a shiny, glossy finish. I love the way it adds a little extra touch of elegance to the dish, making it look like it’s from a gourmet bakery.

Be careful not to get any egg wash on the edges where the dough is sealed. You want those parts to stay secure during baking. Once it’s all brushed on, you’re ready to pop it into the oven.

6. Bake the Stromboli

Now comes the best part: baking! Slide your stromboli into the preheated oven and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and fully cooked through. Keep an eye on it towards the end—everyone’s oven is a little different, and you want to make sure the dough isn’t getting too dark too quickly.

As it bakes, you’ll start to smell that delicious, cheesy aroma wafting through the kitchen. It’s like the scent of comfort and happiness all in one! The dough will puff up slightly, and the cheese will begin to ooze out from the inside, but don’t worry—that’s all part of the fun.

To test if your stromboli is done, gently tap on the crust. It should sound hollow, indicating that the dough has fully cooked. If you have a food thermometer, you can also check the internal temperature—aim for around 190°F (88°C) to make sure everything is perfectly hot and the filling is fully melted.

7. Add the Butter Topping

While the stromboli is baking, you can prepare the finishing touch that will take this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness: the garlic butter topping. In a small bowl, melt about 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic powder and dried parsley to the melted butter, and mix well. The garlic butter will create a fragrant, flavorful topping that coats the stromboli once it comes out of the oven.

Once your stromboli is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and immediately brush the garlic butter mixture all over the top. The butter will soak into the dough, adding richness and an irresistible flavor. It’s like giving your stromboli a warm, buttery bath—it’s a small touch, but it makes a huge difference in both flavor and texture.

If you like a little extra crunch and flavor, you can also sprinkle some sesame seeds on top at this point. They add a nice, subtle nuttiness to the dish and give it a bit of extra visual appeal.

8. Cool and Serve

The hard part is almost over, and now it’s time to let the stromboli rest. As tempting as it may be, resist the urge to slice into it immediately—let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting. This allows the cheese and filling to set slightly, making it much easier to slice without everything spilling out.

Once it’s had a chance to cool, grab a sharp knife and slice the stromboli into 1-inch pieces. You’ll end up with perfectly portioned, golden, cheesy bites that are perfect for sharing—or devouring all by yourself! The layers of chicken ham, chicken, Swiss, and mozzarella will meld together, creating a rich and satisfying bite every time.

A Few Final Tips for Perfection

Before we wrap up, I want to leave you with a few extra tips that can take your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli to the next level:

Add Some Veggies: If you want to sneak some veggies in there, you can layer some spinach or sautéed mushrooms along with the meats and cheese. It adds a nice burst of color and flavor without compromising the integrity of the dish.
Experiment with Cheeses: Swiss is the classic choice, but feel free to swap it out for other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even sharp cheddar. Each variety will bring a unique flavor profile to the dish.
Dipping Sauces: For an extra flavor boost, serve the stromboli with a side of marinara or even a creamy ranch dip. These sauces complement the flavors wonderfully and add a fun interactive element to the meal.
Freezing Leftovers: This stromboli keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can also freeze it for later. To freeze, let the stromboli cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

FAQ Section: Your Burning Questions About Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli

Before we wrap up and you dive into making this scrumptious Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli, let’s go over some common questions I often get about this recipe. From ingredient swaps to storage tips, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Dough for This Recipe?

Absolutely! While pizza dough is the most common choice for stromboli, you can get creative with your dough. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try using puff pastry for an ultra-flaky crust. You could also go with a whole wheat dough for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that different doughs may require slightly different baking times, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.

2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this ahead of time! If you’re prepping for a busy week, you can assemble the stromboli the night before and store it in the fridge, unbaked, until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This ensures even baking.

3. How Do I Know If My Stromboli Is Fully Cooked?

The best way to test if your stromboli is done is by checking the crust. It should be golden brown and crisp to the touch. You can also tap on the top gently, and it should sound hollow, which is a good sign that the dough is cooked through. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) to ensure the filling is hot and the cheese is melted.

4. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?

Yes! If you prefer chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, go ahead and use them instead of chicken breast. Just be sure to cook the thighs thoroughly before shredding them. The richness of chicken thighs will add a little extra flavor to the stromboli, making it even more delicious.

5. Can I Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli?

Definitely! This stromboli freezes beautifully. Once it’s baked and completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. It’s the perfect way to prep ahead for busy days!

6. What Can I Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli?

This stromboli is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, there are a few options. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance out the richness of the stromboli perfectly. You could also serve it with some roasted veggies, like asparagus or brussels sprouts, or even a side of crispy potato wedges for that ultimate comfort meal.

7. Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this stromboli! Simply swap out the chicken and chicken ham for your favorite plant-based alternatives. There are plenty of great vegetarian deli meats and vegan cheeses on the market that can mimic the texture and flavor of the traditional ingredients. You could also load it up with some sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Conclusion: Time to Enjoy Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli

And that’s a wrap on the Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli! Whether you’re preparing this for a family dinner, a game day snack, or just a comforting weeknight meal, I hope this recipe brings you joy in both the making and the eating. It’s a fun twist on a classic that combines all the flavors you love, but in an easy-to-serve, melt-in-your-mouth package.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite fillings, try out different doughs, or even make it ahead of time to fit into your busy schedule. With a little garlic butter on top and some warm dipping sauces on the side, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to hear how your stromboli turns out! Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or any questions you might have. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own.