If you have ever craved a sandwich that perfectly balances tender chicken, gooey Swiss cheese, and savory ham all nestled between crispy toasted bread, then this Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new go-to indulgence. This recipe takes the classic elegance of chicken cordon bleu and transforms it into a hearty, satisfying sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy, melty, and savory elements that come together effortlessly, making it a true crowd-pleaser whether for a weekend lunch or a casual dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. From the flavorful chicken breasts to the creamy Swiss cheese, every element contributes to the overall wow factor in taste, texture, and color.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and perfect for breading and grilling.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Adds a nutty, creamy melt that pairs beautifully with chicken and ham.
- 4 slices ham: Brings a salty, smoky dimension to the sandwich’s flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the sandwich bread.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and depth, balancing the richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to crisp the chicken perfectly in the skillet.
- 2 sandwich rolls: Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provide the golden, crunchy coating essential for that satisfying bite.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the binder to help breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create the crispy base layer in the breading process.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic warmth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth of the chicken coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors forward.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat to ensure it’s ready when your chicken is perfectly breaded. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a clean surface and gently season both sides with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg with a tablespoon of water until it’s smooth and combined. Place the flour in a second dish and spread the breadcrumbs in a third. This organized setup makes the breading process quick and efficient, ensuring each chicken breast is coated evenly for that ideal crispy texture.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, coating both sides lightly but completely. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, making sure every part is covered. Finally, press the breasts into the breadcrumbs, gently pushing them in so the coating sticks well and creates a crunchy crust when cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until they reach a golden brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F. This step creates a beautiful, crispy exterior and juicy interior that defines the sandwich’s texture.
Step 5: Toast the Rolls and Melt the Cheese
While the chicken cooks, slice your sandwich rolls in half and toast them lightly on the grill or in a pan until golden. After the chicken finishes cooking, layer two slices of Swiss cheese on each piece and let it melt slightly. This melted cheese blankets the chicken with creamy goodness that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy breading.
Step 6: Assemble Your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich
Spread mayonnaise on the cut sides of each toasted roll, and then add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard on top to add a subtle tang. Layer a slice of ham on the bottom halves of the rolls, followed by the chicken breasts topped with melted Swiss cheese. Finally, cover with the top half of the rolls and press gently to hold everything in place. Your sandwich is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe even further, consider adding a few fresh garnishes such as crisp lettuce leaves, thinly sliced tomatoes, or even a few crunchy pickles. These add a fresh contrast and a burst of color that make each bite more exciting.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy French fries or a light mixed green salad. You could also serve it alongside tangy coleslaw or a bowl of creamy tomato soup to create a comforting and well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwich into halves or quarters and secure them with decorative toothpicks for easy sharing. You can also serve it open-faced with an extra drizzle of mustard or a sprinkling of fresh herbs, turning it into a stylish party appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, ready for a quick and delicious reheat.
Freezing
While the sandwich tastes best fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts separately. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month. When you want to enjoy the sandwich again, thaw and reheat the chicken before assembling with fresh bread and toppings.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, use an oven or toaster oven set to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to help restore the crispiness on the chicken and warm everything through evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts beautifully, you can substitute with Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone for a different flavor profile. Just choose cheeses that melt well and complement the sandwich’s savory elements.
Is it necessary to bread the chicken for this sandwich?
The breading adds a wonderful crunch and helps seal in moisture, enhancing the texture and flavor contrast. However, if you prefer a lighter version, you can grill the chicken without breading, but the sandwich will have a different texture.
Can I make this Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken breasts in advance and keep them refrigerated. Assemble the sandwich right before serving to keep the bread from becoming soggy and ensure the cheese remains perfectly melty.
What type of bread works best?
Soft sandwich rolls work best since they’re sturdy enough to hold the sandwich together but soft enough to complement the crunchy chicken and melty cheese. You can also use ciabatta or hoagie rolls for a different texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe that makes it stand out from your everyday sandwich options. With its golden crispy chicken, melted Swiss cheese, and savory ham, it’s a flavor-packed plate that’s both comforting and impressive. I encourage you to try this recipe soon – it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your home, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich features tender, breaded chicken breasts stuffed with Swiss cheese and ham, grilled to perfection, and served on toasted sandwich rolls with a tangy mayonnaise and Dijon mustard spread. A delicious twist on the classic cordon bleu, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sandwich Fillings and Condiments
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices ham
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 sandwich rolls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat to prepare for toasting the sandwich rolls later.
- Season Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts on a clean surface and lightly season both sides with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for added flavor.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and a tablespoon of water until fully combined, to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in a separate shallow dish and the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish for the dredging process.
- Dredge in Flour: Coat each chicken breast evenly with flour on both sides.
- Dip in Egg Mixture: Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg wash, ensuring each side is thoroughly coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press the egg-coated chicken breasts into the breadcrumbs to create a crunchy exterior.
- Heat Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing to cook the chicken breasts.
- Cook Chicken: Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
- Toast Rolls: While cooking chicken, cut the sandwich rolls in half and lightly toast them on the grill or in a separate pan until they turn golden and slightly crispy.
- Melt Cheese: Once chicken is cooked, place two slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast and allow it to melt slightly while still in the skillet or off heat.
- Prepare Condiments: Spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on the cut sides of each toasted roll, then add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard on top of the mayonnaise.
- Assemble Sandwich Bottom: Place a slice of ham on the bottom half of each sandwich roll.
- Add Chicken: Carefully place the cooked chicken with melted Swiss cheese on top of the ham slices.
- Finish Sandwich: Top with the other half of the sandwich roll, pressing gently to secure the sandwich.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich immediately to enjoy the combination of crispy chicken, melty cheese, and tangy condiments.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Optionally, add lettuce, tomato, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a crispier crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- If grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying, adjust cooking times accordingly.
