Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my latest obsession: chicken cordon bleu stromboli! This dish is a heavenly blend of tender chicken, savory ham, and ooey-gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a warm, crusty pizza dough. Seriously, it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! The first time I made this, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to throw together, and yet it feels like such a special treat. Trust me, your family will think you’ve slaved away in the kitchen for hours. I love serving it with a side of marinara for dipping—it’s the perfect touch! I promise, once you try this chicken cordon bleu stromboli, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or just when you want something satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish together!
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Now, let’s talk about the star players in this delightful dish! You won’t need anything too fancy, just some good-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded: I like to use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken will do! Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the stromboli.
- 4 slices ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works beautifully. You can go for honey ham for a touch of sweetness or smoked ham for a bit of a kick—both are delicious!
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded: This cheese is a must! It melts so beautifully and adds that creamy goodness that pairs perfectly with the chicken and ham.
- 1 package pizza dough: You can use store-bought dough for ease, or if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own! Just ensure it’s enough to wrap all those yummy fillings.
- 1 egg, beaten: This will be your egg wash! It gives the stromboli a lovely golden color and helps seal the edges.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A sprinkle of this adds a punch of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of seasoning to elevate the taste. Feel free to adjust to your liking!
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu stromboli that everyone will rave about!
How to Prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this chicken cordon bleu stromboli! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that will impress everyone. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a cozy family dinner in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because it ensures your stromboli gets that beautiful golden brown crust. No one wants a soggy dough, right? So, let that oven warm up while you prep the rest!
Roll Out the Pizza Dough
Now, grab your pizza dough and sprinkle a little flour on your countertop. This prevents sticking and makes your life so much easier. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. You want it to be big enough to hold all those scrumptious fillings, but not so thick that it overshadows them. Picture a nice flat canvas ready for your masterpiece!
Layer the Fillings
Time to layer up! Start with the shredded chicken, spreading it evenly across the dough. Next, lay down the slices of ham over the chicken. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese generously on top of everything. Be sure to distribute the ingredients so every slice has a taste of that wonderful filling. It’s like a party in every bite!
Season the Filling
Here comes the flavor magic! Take your garlic powder and black pepper, and sprinkle them evenly over the filling. This step is crucial because it adds that extra oomph without overpowering the deliciousness of the chicken, ham, and cheese. You’ll want to make sure every inch is seasoned to perfection!
Roll the Dough
Now for the fun part—rolling it all up! Start at one end of the rectangle and carefully roll the dough towards the other end, keeping it tight but not too tight (we don’t want any fillings bursting out!). Once you’ve rolled it up, pinch the ends to seal it. This helps keep all that cheesy goodness tucked inside where it belongs!
Prepare for Baking
Alright, let’s get this stromboli ready for the oven! Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush the top with the beaten egg for that gorgeous golden glaze. It not only looks pretty but also helps seal the edges. You can even sprinkle a bit more garlic powder on top if you want to amp up the aroma!
Bake to Perfection
Pop that baby in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and it smells heavenly! Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes, and if you want a deep golden color, you can give it a little broil for a minute—but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
Cool and Slice
Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in right away! Let the stromboli cool for a few minutes—it makes slicing way easier and helps keep the gooey cheese from spilling everywhere. After it’s cooled a bit, slice it up and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Trust me, you’re going to want to savor every single bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This chicken cordon bleu stromboli comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something homemade and delicious.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese creates a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish! It’s a fun twist on classic flavors, and you can even get the little ones involved in the rolling process—perfect for family bonding time.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match the fillings! Whether you want to add some veggies or swap the cheeses, this recipe is super forgiving and adaptable to your family’s tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner, game day, or a potluck, this stromboli is always a crowd-pleaser that won’t disappoint!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, let’s make sure your chicken cordon bleu stromboli turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips that I’ve gathered from countless attempts in the kitchen (and a few happy accidents along the way):
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Seriously, go heavy on the Swiss cheese! It’s what makes this dish so creamy and delicious. A generous amount will ensure that every bite is a cheesy delight.
- Let Your Dough Rest: If you’re using homemade pizza dough, let it rest for about 10 minutes after rolling it out. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll without springing back.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are a little different, so feel free to adjust the garlic powder and black pepper to suit your family’s preferences. You could even add a pinch of paprika for a smoky touch!
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes for easy cleanup but also helps prevent sticking. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your stromboli during the last few minutes of baking. If it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, it’s ready to come out! If it looks pale, give it a few more minutes.
- Let It Cool: I know it’s tempting to slice right into that warm stromboli, but letting it cool for a few minutes helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to cut without it oozing out everywhere.
- Experiment with Fillings: This recipe is super versatile! Feel free to add cooked veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or even switch up the meats. Just keep the ratios similar, and you’ll be golden!
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: While marinara is a classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your dipping sauces! A creamy ranch or zesty garlic aioli can take this dish to the next level.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a chicken cordon bleu stromboli that’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about what to do with any leftovers from your chicken cordon bleu stromboli—if there are any! I mean, let’s be real, this dish is so good it might disappear in one sitting, but just in case, here’s how to keep it fresh for later.
First off, once your stromboli has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps keep that delicious filling from drying out. You can also store it in an airtight container, which is my go-to method for easy stacking in the fridge.
Leftover stromboli can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later on, you can freeze it as well! Just slice it into pieces, wrap each piece individually, and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for about 2 months—perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!
When you’re ready to enjoy your stromboli again, you have a couple of options for reheating. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine. Just pop a piece on a plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed through.
But if you want that lovely crispy crust back, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the stromboli on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s heated all the way through. You’ll get that delightful crunch on the outside again—so worth the wait!
There you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your chicken cordon bleu stromboli even days after you’ve made it. Enjoy every last bite!
FAQ About Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Got questions about making this delicious chicken cordon bleu stromboli? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I’ve encountered, along with my trusty answers. Let’s dive in!
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this. Just shred it up and you’re good to go! It saves time and makes this dish even easier.
What if I can’t find Swiss cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with provolone or even mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand. Each cheese will give a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious!
Can I make this stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stromboli and assemble it before baking. Cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking for the best results!
Is it possible to freeze the stromboli?
Definitely! You can freeze the uncooked stromboli by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
While marinara is a classic, you can also serve it with ranch, garlic aioli, or a zesty mustard sauce. It’s all about what flavors you love best!
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some cooked spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to chop them finely so they fit well inside!
How do I know when the stromboli is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap on the bottom. A good rule of thumb is to check around the 25-minute mark and adjust as needed.
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Of course! Homemade pizza dough can be used—just make sure it’s rolled out to a similar thickness so that it bakes evenly. It’ll add a personal touch to your stromboli!
What’s the best way to slice the stromboli?
Once it’s cooled for a bit, use a sharp serrated knife to slice it. This will help you get clean cuts without squishing all the delicious filling out!
I hope these FAQs help clear up any uncertainties you might have! Making chicken cordon bleu stromboli is such a fun and rewarding experience, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this scrumptious chicken cordon bleu stromboli! While I’m all about enjoying delicious food, I know it’s nice to have an idea of what’s in it, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your diet. Here’s a rough breakdown of the typical nutritional values per slice, and remember, these are estimates as the actual numbers can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
This chicken cordon bleu stromboli strikes a nice balance with protein from the chicken and cheese, while also being hearty enough to satisfy your cravings. It’s a delightful option for a filling meal without going overboard. Just keep in mind that if you add extra ingredients or sides, the nutritional values may change a bit. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve got a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A savory chicken cordon bleu stromboli filled with chicken, ham, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 4 slices ham
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Layer the shredded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese on the dough.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper over the filling.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Place the stromboli on a baking sheet.
- Brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Customize fillings as desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken cordon bleu stromboli, chicken stromboli, Italian stromboli
