Eloise Moon If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the comfort of Chicken Cordon Bleu and the convenience of a handheld snack, this savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli is about to become your go-to favorite. Imagine layers of juicy chicken, melted Swiss cheese, and smoky ham all wrapped in a golden-brown, bakery-style crust. This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything from the origins of stromboli to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, variations, and pairing ideas. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, this recipe delivers flavor, convenience, and wow-factor in every bite.
🧀 What Is a Stromboli, and Why Cordon Bleu Works So Well?
A stromboli is a rolled Italian-American dish made by layering meats, cheeses, and sauces onto dough, then rolling it into a loaf and baking until golden and crispy. It’s like a cross between a calzone and a sandwich but easier to slice and share.
The combination of Chicken Cordon Bleu—typically made with breaded chicken breast, Swiss cheese, and ham—fits perfectly into stromboli form. Instead of breading and frying, we layer these savory ingredients in dough and bake them into a cohesive, ooey-gooey centerpiece.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Easy to prep, bake, and slice
✅ No frying or deep-cleaning needed
✅ Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
✅ Great for lunches, dinners, or appetizers
✅ Customizable with different meats, cheeses, and sauces
🧾 Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli
Here’s everything you’ll need to make one large stromboli that serves about 4–6 people:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast (sliced or shredded)
- 6–8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 slices deli ham (or turkey ham if avoiding pork)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for post-bake brushing)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional for topping)
🍳 Equipment You’ll Need
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Clean work surface
- Mixing bowl (for egg wash)
👨🍳 How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 10×14 inches. You want it thin enough to roll but thick enough to hold the fillings.
Step 3: Spread the Sauce
Mix Dijon mustard with mayonnaise (if using), and spread it over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Start layering:
- Swiss cheese slices
- Deli ham
- Shredded or sliced cooked chicken
Layer evenly for consistent flavor in each bite.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold the long edges of the dough inward. Tuck the ends under, and gently flip the stromboli seam-side down onto the baking sheet.
Step 6: Add the Egg Wash & Seasonings
Brush the top with beaten egg. Sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, and Parmesan.
Step 7: Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Rest, Slice & Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice using a serrated knife or pizza cutter. Serve warm.
🥘 Tips for Stromboli Success
✔ Don’t overfill — Too much filling can break the dough.
✔ Chill fillings before assembly to reduce steam buildup.
✔ Seal edges properly to avoid leaks.
✔ Preheat oven fully for a crisp crust.
✔ Brush with butter after baking for shine and added flavor.
🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Variations
This recipe is a blank canvas! Here are some ideas:
| Variation | How to Make It |
|---|---|
| Chicken Alfredo Stromboli | Replace Dijon with Alfredo sauce and add mozzarella. |
| Vegetarian Version | Skip the meat, add mushrooms, spinach, and extra cheese. |
| Spicy Version | Add pepper jack cheese and a touch of sriracha to the sauce. |
| Breakfast Stromboli | Use scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheddar. |
| Low-Carb Option | Use a low-carb dough alternative like fathead dough. |
🥗 Serving Ideas and Pairings
Stromboli is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like:
- Fresh Caesar or garden salad
- Tomato basil or potato soup
- Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies
- Dipping sauces: honey mustard, ranch, marinara
Want to serve it as an appetizer? Slice into small 1–2 inch pieces and serve with toothpicks.
❄️ Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
To make ahead:
Assemble the stromboli and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
To freeze unbaked:
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, adding 10–15 minutes to the bake time.
To store leftovers:
Wrap slices in foil or store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
Use the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes or microwave briefly with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using cold dough — Let dough rest at room temp for 20 minutes before rolling.
- ❌ Overstuffing — Makes sealing and baking harder.
- ❌ Not scoring the top — Causes steam buildup and soggy crust.
- ❌ Underbaking — Check for golden brown crust on top and bottom.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s flavorful and saves time.
What if I don’t like Swiss cheese?
Try provolone, mozzarella, or even gouda.
Is puff pastry okay?
Yes—but bake at 375°F and keep fillings light to avoid sogginess.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Stromboli freezes well both baked and unbaked.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pizza dough or wraps, adjusting bake time as needed.
🧠 Pro Tips for Homemade Dough
Want to make your own dough from scratch? Here’s a simple recipe:
Easy Stromboli Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix with flour, oil, and salt. Knead until soft.
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll and use as directed.
🧀 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Est.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 32g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
🧡 What Readers Say
“Made this for Sunday football and it was a total crowd-pleaser. Kids loved it too!”
— Jessica T.
“I swapped ham for smoked turkey and added sautéed onions—amazing combo!”
— Mark R.
📌 Final Thoughts: A Comfort Food Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
Whether you’re a fan of stromboli, cordon bleu, or just a sucker for melted cheese inside golden crust—this dish is a must-try. It blends flavor, convenience, and creativity into one satisfying roll. Ideal for weeknights, meal prep, potlucks, or game nights.
