If you are craving a sandwich that perfectly balances melty cheese, savory ham, and juicy grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy twist, this Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe is your new go-to. It takes the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu and turns them into a handheld delight that’s ideal for a satisfying lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a quick grilling method, this recipe brings together a harmony of textures and bold flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an important role in building that little masterpiece of flavor and texture. From the seasoned chicken to the creamy sauce, every component enhances the sandwich’s charm.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness: Ensures quick, even grilling for juicy chicken every time.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavor of the chicken and other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle aromatic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a lovely smoky depth to the chicken.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, nutty layer.
- 4 slices deli ham: Provides the classic salty, savory heart of the cordon bleu taste.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Contributes creaminess to the honey-Dijon sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to balance the sandwich.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Offers a subtle sweetness to round out the flavors.
- 2 brioche or ciabatta sandwich rolls split: Soft yet sturdy buns that hold everything together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Used to toast the buns, creating a golden, flavorful crust.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness.
- 2 slices tomato (optional): Provides a juicy burst of color and flavor.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Start by pounding your chicken breasts evenly so they cook uniformly on the grill. Then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This seasoning combo creates a flavorful crust and layers of smoky, savory notes that perfectly complement the ham and cheese.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken with Ham and Swiss
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and place the chicken on it. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last minute of grilling, add two slices of deli ham to each piece and top with Swiss cheese, then close the grill lid just long enough to let the cheese melt into ooey-gooey perfection.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey-Dijon Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl to create a creamy sauce with just the right balance of sweet and tangy. This sauce is the magic touch that elevates the sandwich.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Brush the inside of your sandwich rolls with melted butter for a rich flavor. Toast the buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and perfectly crisp, adding a satisfying crunch and buttery aroma to every bite.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread the honey-Dijon sauce on both the top and bottom halves of your toasted rolls. Layer shredded lettuce and tomato (if using) on the bottom, then lay your cheesy ham-topped chicken on top. Close the sandwich and serve it warm, making sure every bite delivers that classic cordon bleu taste.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can brighten up the rich, savory sandwich. Try adding crisp pickles or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on the sandwich to add bursts of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or even a simple bowl of tomato soup for a cozy meal. The richness of the sandwich is perfectly balanced with something light and refreshing or crunchy.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or add a fun twist, slice your sandwich diagonally and secure each half with a decorative toothpick. Serve alongside a small ramekin of extra honey-Dijon sauce for dipping. Alternatively, stack mini sliders version of the Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe for a playful appetizer platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sandwich leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the bread might soften slightly over time but the flavors remain delicious.
Freezing
Although the sandwich is best fresh, you can freeze the cooked grilled chicken separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the assembled sandwich with lettuce and tomato as these ingredients don’t hold up well to freezing.
Reheating
To reheat leftover grilled chicken, warm it gently in a skillet or oven until heated through and the cheese is soft again. Toast the bread separately to bring back that wonderful crunch before assembling your sandwich.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! Gruyere or mozzarella are great alternatives that melt well and complement the ham and chicken flavors nicely.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender. It’s especially helpful for this recipe to avoid overcooking or dry spots.
Can I make this sandwich without a grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan or even cook the chicken breasts on a stovetop skillet, then toast the buns under a broiler or in a toaster oven.
What bread options work best for this sandwich?
Brioche and ciabatta rolls are ideal for their balance of softness and sturdiness, but any sandwich roll or even a sturdy baguette can work well.
How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, spread the honey-Dijon sauce sparingly and toast the buns well. Add fresh lettuce and tomato just before serving to maintain crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s simple enough for any weeknight but impressive enough to serve to friends and family. I encourage you to give it a try — the combination of smoky grilled chicken, melty Swiss cheese, savory ham, and that sweet honey-Dijon sauce will surely become one of your cherished sandwich recipes.
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Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich is a delicious twist on the classic dish with tender grilled chicken breasts layered with savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a honey-Dijon mayo sauce. Nestled in toasted brioche or ciabatta rolls with fresh lettuce and tomato, it makes a satisfying and flavorful main course perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fillings and Sauce
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices deli ham
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
Bread and Garnishes
- 2 brioche or ciabatta sandwich rolls, split
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 slices tomato (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking of the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Add Ham and Cheese: During the last minute of grilling, place two slices of deli ham on each chicken breast and top with Swiss cheese. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese slightly.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey to create the honey-Dijon sauce.
- Toast Rolls: Brush the inside of each sandwich roll with melted butter and toast them on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble Sandwich: Spread honey-Dijon sauce on both sides of each toasted roll. Layer shredded lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom halves, then add the grilled chicken cordon bleu on top.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Pound the chicken thin for quicker, more even cooking.
- For a smokier flavor, add a slice of cooked bacon inside the sandwich.
- Brioche rolls offer the softest texture, but any sturdy sandwich roll works well.
