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This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli transforms the classic French dish into a convenient roll-up that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham and melty Swiss cheese wrapped in a golden pizza dough creates a crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in minutes.
I first made this stromboli when looking for a way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, and it's become our go-to solution for busy weeknights. My family actually prefers this easier version to traditional chicken cordon bleu with all its pounding and rolling.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated pizza crust: Provides the perfect wrapper with minimal effort and consistent results every time
- Thin sliced deli ham: Adds that classic cordon bleu flavor while being easy to layer without overwhelming the roll
- Shredded cooked chicken: Works beautifully whether freshly cooked or leftover from another meal
- Swiss cheese: Delivers the authentic flavor that makes chicken cordon bleu special with its nutty meltability
- Melted butter: Creates that irresistible golden crust that makes everyone reach for another slice
- Optional Alfredo sauce: Takes this from delicious to extraordinary with its creamy richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Work Surface:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and unroll the pizza dough onto a baking sheet, making sure to spread it out evenly without tearing. The rectangular shape is perfect for creating a proper roll.
- Layer The Fillings:
- Arrange ham slices in a slightly overlapping pattern across the dough leaving a half-inch border all around. This border is crucial for sealing later. Distribute the shredded chicken evenly over the ham, then top with Swiss cheese slices, again maintaining that border.
- Roll And Seal:
- Starting with a long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough jellyroll style, keeping the filling tucked in as you go. Work slowly to maintain a tight roll. Once completely rolled, pinch the seam firmly to seal and tuck the ends under to prevent filling from escaping.
- Brush And Bake:
- Brush the entire surface with melted butter, making sure to coat all exposed dough. This creates a beautiful golden color and adds flavor. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the crust becomes a deep golden brown color.
- Rest Before Slicing:
- Allow the stromboli to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This critical step lets the melted cheese set slightly so your filling stays inside each slice rather than oozing out immediately.
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Swiss cheese is truly the star ingredient for me in this stromboli. Its distinctive nutty flavor and superior melting quality creates those irresistible cheese pulls when you take a bite. I remember making this for my neighborhood potluck last summer, and watching everyone's faces light up when they pulled their slices apart to reveal the stretchy cheese inside.
Make-Ahead Options
This stromboli can be completely assembled up to a day ahead and refrigerated unbaked. Just brush with butter right before baking and add 3-4 minutes to the baking time when cooking from chilled. This makes it perfect for preparing on Sunday for a quick Monday dinner.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this stromboli reaches new heights when served with a side of warm Alfredo sauce for dipping. A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides the perfect balance to the rich flavors. For a complete meal, consider roasted vegetables or a light soup as accompaniments.
Customization Ideas
The basic format of this stromboli welcomes variations. Try pepperoni and mozzarella for an Italian twist, or use leftover turkey and cranberry sauce after Thanksgiving. Vegetarian options work well too, with roasted vegetables and fontina cheese making a delightful combination. The technique remains the same regardless of your filling choices.
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Storage And Reheating
Leftover stromboli stays good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly in foil or stored in an airtight container. For best results when reheating, place slices in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can make the crust soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cheese for this stromboli?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese pairs wonderfully for its smooth melt and sharp flavor, you can substitute with provolone, mozzarella, or even gouda for a unique twist.
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Shredded cooked chicken is ideal for this stromboli. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even leftover roasted chicken for a quick and flavorful filling.
- → Can I prepare this stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stromboli a day ahead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.
- → What dipping sauces pair best with this stromboli?
Classic Alfredo sauce, Mornay sauce, or even marinara sauce are great options for dipping. You can also try a honey mustard sauce for a tangy kick!
- → How do I ensure the crust is perfectly golden brown?
Brush the rolled stromboli with melted butter before baking. This helps to create a beautifully golden and crispy crust. For extra browning, you can also sprinkle a bit of parmesan cheese on top.