Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish, but sometimes you want something a little less formal and a little more…portable. Enter the Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich! This recipe takes all the best flavors of the original—crispy chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese—and transforms them into a satisfying and easy-to-eat sandwich. Perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or even a picnic, this sandwich is sure to become a new favorite.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of crispy chicken, salty ham, and nutty Swiss cheese is simply irresistible.
* **Easy to Make:** While it might seem fancy, this sandwich is surprisingly simple to put together. You can even use pre-cooked chicken to save time.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking. Try different cheeses, sauces, or bread types.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re packing a lunch, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving a delicious sandwich, this recipe is a winner.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

* **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the foundation of this sandwich. You can use regular-sized or smaller chicken cutlets.
* **Ham:** Thinly sliced ham adds a salty and savory element. Black Forest ham, honey ham, or even prosciutto would work well.
* **Swiss Cheese:** The classic cheese for Chicken Cordon Bleu. Its nutty and slightly sweet flavor complements the other ingredients perfectly. Gruyere is a good substitute.
* **Bread:** Choose your favorite sandwich bread. Brioche buns, ciabatta rolls, or even sourdough bread would be delicious.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** For coating the chicken and creating a crispy crust.
* **Eggs:** Beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
* **Breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs provide the best crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will also work. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Adds a tangy and flavorful kick to the sandwich. You can substitute with honey mustard or your favorite mustard.
* **Mayonnaise:** Provides a creamy and rich base for the sandwich.
* **Butter:** For cooking the chicken and adding flavor.
* **Olive Oil:** To help prevent the butter from burning.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To season the chicken and enhance the flavors.
* **Optional Toppings:** Lettuce, tomato, pickles, or any other sandwich toppings you enjoy.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Cutting Board:** For preparing the chicken and other ingredients.
* **Chef’s Knife:** For slicing the chicken and other ingredients.
* **Shallow Dishes (3):** For dredging the chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
* **Large Skillet or Frying Pan:** For cooking the chicken.
* **Spatula:** For flipping the chicken.
* **Baking Sheet (Optional):** For melting the cheese on the sandwiches in the oven.
* **Oven (Optional):** For melting the cheese on the sandwiches.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich:

**1. Prepare the Chicken:**

* Place a chicken breast on a cutting board. Cover it with plastic wrap and pound it to an even thickness (about 1/4-inch thick). This ensures even cooking. You can also use pre-cut chicken cutlets.
* Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.

**2. Set Up the Dredging Station:**

* In the first shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour.
* In the second shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
* In the third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.

**3. Dredge the Chicken:**

* Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat all sides.
* Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
* Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, making sure the breadcrumbs adhere well to all sides. Gently pat the breadcrumbs to help them stick.

**4. Cook the Chicken:**

* In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. The olive oil prevents the butter from burning.
* Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
* Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
* Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

**5. Assemble the Sandwiches:**

* Slice the bread in half.
* Spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise on both halves of each bun. Adjust the amounts to your liking.
* Place a cooked chicken breast on the bottom half of each bun.
* Top the chicken with slices of ham and Swiss cheese.

**6. Melt the Cheese (Optional):**

* For a truly melty and gooey sandwich, you can melt the cheese under a broiler or in a preheated oven.
* **Broiler Method:** Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
* **Oven Method:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

**7. Add Toppings (Optional):**

* Add any desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles.

**8. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich.
* Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich!

## Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich

* **Pound the Chicken:** Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and quickly. It also makes the chicken more tender.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cooking the chicken in batches prevents the pan from getting too crowded, which can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
* **Toast the Buns:** Toasting the buns adds extra texture and flavor to the sandwich. You can toast them in a toaster or in the oven.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients, such as good-quality ham and Swiss cheese, will make a big difference in the flavor of the sandwich.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Some other great options include avocado, sprouts, or even a fried egg.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Turkey Cordon Bleu Sandwich:** Substitute the chicken with turkey breast for a lighter option.
* **Vegetarian Cordon Bleu Sandwich:** Use a vegetarian chicken substitute and veggie ham slices.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
* **Different Breads:** Use different types of bread, such as croissants, bagels, or even waffles.
* **Add a Sauce:** Drizzle the sandwich with your favorite sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a creamy garlic sauce.
* **Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich:** Instead of pan-frying the chicken, you can cook it in an air fryer for a healthier option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

## Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

* **Serve with a side of fries or onion rings.**
* **Pair it with a fresh salad.**
* **Add a cup of soup.**
* **Serve with coleslaw or potato salad.**
* **Pack it for a picnic or lunchbox.**

## Make-Ahead Instructions

* You can prepare the breaded chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving.
* You can also assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but don’t melt the cheese until just before serving. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

## Storage Instructions

* Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

## Nutrition Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 600-800 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g

## Recipe Card

**Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich**

A delicious twist on a classic, this sandwich is perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or even a picnic!

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 40 minutes
**Servings:** 4 sandwiches

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 8 slices ham
* 8 slices Swiss cheese
* 4 sandwich buns
* Dijon mustard, to taste
* Mayonnaise, to taste
* Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles

**Instructions:**

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/4-inch thick). Season with salt and pepper.
2. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
5. Slice the buns and spread with Dijon mustard and mayonnaise.
6. Place a cooked chicken breast on the bottom half of each bun. Top with ham and Swiss cheese.
7. (Optional) Melt the cheese under a broiler or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until melted and gooey.
8. Add any desired toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Conclusion

The Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a more casual and convenient format. With its crispy chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable sandwich! This recipe is perfect for weeknight meals, weekend lunches, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer. You can customize it with your favorite sauces, toppings, and bread choices to create your own signature version. Bon appétit!