Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food, Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli! Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and the smell of savory chicken, ham, and melted Swiss cheese fills the air. This dish brings together everything I love about cozy family dinners, all wrapped up in warm, pillowy pizza dough. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; we gathered around the table, and you could just see their eyes light up with each bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel right at home, perfect for a weekend gathering or even a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Imagine pulling apart that golden crust to reveal layers of deliciousness inside. Every bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it hard to stop at just one slice. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli

Let’s talk about why Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is an absolute gem in the kitchen! First off, it’s a delightful mash-up of flavors — the tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese create a satisfying harmony that’s downright irresistible. The crispy, golden crust from the pizza dough adds that perfect crunch, making each bite a textural delight.

But what really makes this dish shine is its versatility. You can serve it as a hearty main course for dinner, slice it up for an easy snack at your next gathering, or even pack it for lunch! And the best part? It comes together so quickly, you can have it in the oven in just about 15 minutes. Seriously, it’s the kind of recipe that’ll make you look like a culinary genius with minimal effort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, let’s gather everything you need to whip up this delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli! Here’s a straightforward list to make your shopping a breeze:

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) – If you’re feeling adventurous, I totally encourage you to make your own! But honestly, store-bought works like a charm too.
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (sliced or shredded) – Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here, saving you time and effort.
• 6 slices deli ham – Go for a good-quality ham; it really elevates the flavor!
• 6 slices Swiss cheese – You can use shredded Swiss if that’s what you have; just sprinkle it evenly over the filling.
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard – This adds a nice kick, so don’t skimp on it! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount.
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional) – I love adding this for creaminess, but you can totally skip it if you want a lighter version.
• 1 tbsp melted butter – This is for brushing on top before baking, giving that beautiful golden crust.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – A must for that extra flavor boost!
• 1 tsp dried parsley – It adds a lovely touch of color and flavor, but you could also use fresh if you have it on hand.
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese – Just a little sprinkle goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste.

Now that you have everything sorted, you’re one step closer to enjoying this amazing dish! Let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli! I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and the end result is just mouthwatering. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of heaven in no time!

Preparing the Dough

First things first: we need to roll out that pizza dough! If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes — this makes it easier to work with. Dust your countertop with a little flour to prevent sticking, and then grab a rolling pin. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. You want it to be large enough to hold all your delicious fillings without tearing. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as you go. It’s okay if it’s not a perfect rectangle; just aim for a shape that’ll allow you to roll it up nicely!

Assembling the Stromboli

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to layer on the goodness! Start by spreading the Dijon mustard and optional mayonnaise evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges — this will help seal everything in. Next, layer the cooked chicken, deli ham, and Swiss cheese evenly across the surface. Make sure to distribute everything so each bite will be packed with flavor! Sprinkle the garlic powder, dried parsley, and Parmesan cheese over the top for that extra oomph. Now comes the fun part: gently roll the dough from one long side to the other, tucking in the filling as you go. Don’t worry if a bit of filling peeks out; it’ll be delicious regardless!

Baking Instructions

Alright, we’re almost there! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you haven’t already done so. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer your rolled Stromboli to the baking sheet, seam-side down. This keeps everything tucked inside while it bakes. Take that melted butter and brush it generously over the top — this is key for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown crust! Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the Stromboli is beautifully golden and the cheese is all melty and gooey inside. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and then get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli, let’s have some fun with variations! You can easily switch up the meats — why not try turkey or even crispy bacon for a smoky twist? If you’re feeling adventurous, shredded BBQ chicken would bring a whole new flavor profile to the table!

Cheese lovers, rejoice! Instead of Swiss, experiment with provolone for a sharper taste or go for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for an ooey-gooey experience. And don’t forget about veggies! Adding sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even some mushrooms can amp up the nutrition while bringing in a burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this Stromboli your own!

Serving and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli, the options are endless! I love slicing it into generous pieces and serving it warm straight from the oven. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a movie night! For an extra touch, consider serving it alongside a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip for dunking. Trust me, those flavors pair beautifully!

As for leftovers, if you happen to have any (which is rare!), let the Stromboli cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn! When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but I prefer the oven for that crispy crust. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft!

Helpful Notes

Before you dive into making your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli, here are some extra tips to ensure everything goes smoothly! First off, if you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider using whole wheat pizza dough. It adds a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber! You can also swap the deli ham for turkey or even a plant-based option if you’re going meatless.

Now, a common mistake is overstuffing the Stromboli. While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, remember that you need to roll it up without any spills. Stick to the suggested amounts, and you’ll avoid a messy situation! Also, be sure to brush the melted butter evenly over the top — it’s crucial for that lovely golden crust. If you forget this step, your Stromboli might end up looking a bit pale.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can take the flavor to another level. Enjoy the process, and remember, cooking is about having fun and making it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred or slice it and layer it in the Stromboli. It’ll add great flavor without any extra cooking!

2. What if I don’t have Swiss cheese? Can I substitute it with another cheese?

Of course! If Swiss cheese isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute with provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar. Each option will bring a unique flavor to your Stromboli, so choose what you love!

3. How do I store leftovers, and how long do they last?

To store leftovers, let the Stromboli cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just make sure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn!

4. Can I make this Stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Stromboli up to the point of baking. Just wrap it tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps it bake evenly!

5. How do I know when the Stromboli is done baking?

You’ll know your Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap it lightly. It should take about 25-30 minutes in the oven. Just keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-baking!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors wrapped in a cozy dough hug. Each bite is a delightful reminder of comfort food at its finest, perfect for any gathering or just a special night in. I truly hope you give this recipe a try — you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying it is!

And remember, cooking is all about experimenting and sharing joy with those you love. I can’t wait to hear how your Stromboli turns out! Snap a picture, share your twists on the recipe, and let’s create a community of home cooks celebrating delicious food together. Happy cooking!

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