Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich

Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining crispy chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese all nestled in a soft, buttery pretzel bun. This recipe is perfect for those cozy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings when you want to impress your friends or family without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice, making this Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe is surprisingly simple and incredibly satisfying. With each bite, you’ll get a rich medley of flavors, and the crunch of the chicken pairs beautifully with the softness of the bun. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create this mouthwatering masterpiece together!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe stands out because it combines the best elements of its classic counterpart while adding that convenient, hand-held aspect. The use of panko breadcrumbs gives the chicken an irresistible crunch, while the layers of ham and melted cheese deliver profound flavor. Plus, the honey mustard sauce adds a touch of sweetness that balances all the richness beautifully. What’s more, frying the chicken in a flavorful olive oil ensures it stays moist inside and crispy outside.

Additionally, assembling everything on a toasted pretzel bun not only elevates the presentation but enhances the overall experience with its unique texture and added flavor. This recipe really hits on every note you could want from a sandwich – savory, crispy, and just downright delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich will quickly become a family favorite for several reasons. First, the blend of savory ham and melty cheese with crispy chicken is comfort food at its finest. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of flavor, making it hard to resist.

Moreover, it’s customizable! You can switch out the meats, cheeses, or even the buns based on what you love or have on hand. The cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. And what’s not to love about a dish that looks this impressive while being easy to make? You’ll be meeting praise and mouthfuls of compliments before you even sit down to enjoy your own.

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Garlic powder to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more as needed for frying)
• 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced (cherry smoked ham recommended)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese, sliced thick
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 pretzel buns (or bread of choice)
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey

Preparing the Chicken for the Sandwich

Flatten and Season the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. Place one hand firmly on top of the chicken breast for stability. Carefully slice it horizontally through the middle to create thinner halves. Then, cut each half into two sections, providing a couple of pieces to work with. Encase each chicken piece in plastic wrap or a zip-top bag, and pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. After flattening, season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for deeper flavor.

Dredging the Chicken

For the next step, you’ll want to set up a dredging station. Grab three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for the panko breadcrumbs. Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, making it ready for frying. Start by dredging each piece of chicken in flour first, then dip it into the egg, and finish by coating it in panko. If you’re craving extra crunch, go an extra round by repeating the flour and egg steps before the breadcrumbs.

Frying the Chicken

Now, it’s time to fry! In batches, lay the chicken pieces into the hot skillet and cook until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. After frying, make sure the chicken is cooked through, then transfer the pieces to a cooling rack. Repeat this process until all chicken pieces are fried and perfectly crispy.

Assembling the Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich

Preparing the Honey Mustard Sauce

While the chicken cools, let’s whip up the sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine equal parts of Dijon mustard and honey, stirring until smooth. This sauce is a perfect complement to the richness of the sandwich, and you can set it aside for later.

Toasting the Pretzel Buns

For the buns, heat a large pan over medium-low heat. Use butter to coat the insides of the pretzel buns, and place them butter side down in the pan to toast. Keep an eye on them; if the bottoms start browning too quickly, reduce the heat. After a minute or so, flip the buns and add a slice of Swiss cheese to the buttered sides of the bottom buns, letting it melt slightly.

Adding Ham and Chicken

In the same pan, warm up the deli ham, making sure to turn it occasionally to heat it evenly. Once hot, lay the ham over the melted cheese on each bun. Top everything off with a piece of that crispy chicken you just fried. If you notice the cheese isn’t completely melted yet, leave the sandwiches in the pan for another minute or two.

Finishing Touches

The final step is to bring it all together. Spread the honey mustard on the reserved top buns, place the tops on the assembled sandwiches, and if you like, cut them in half for easier handling. Serve warm and consider offering extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich with crispy fries for that classic combo.
• Consider adding a fresh salad for a lighter side.
• A chilled coleslaw can provide a nice contrast to the sandwich’s rich flavors.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the meat thermometer! Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• For another layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in herbs and spices before pounding and frying it.

Variations

• If Swiss cheese isn’t your style, try substituting it with cheddar or provolone for a different flavor focus.
• For a lighter version, grilling the chicken instead of frying can work wonders while still being tasty.

Storage Tips

• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to three days.
• For reheating, the oven is best at 350°F to help maintain that perfect crispness of the chicken and buns.

Pairing Ideas

• Pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich with a crisp pale ale, or a light white wine for a perfect match.
• Sweet potato fries are another excellent pairing that complements the richness of the sandwich wonderfully.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Certainly! While you can prepare the chicken and honey mustard in advance, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches right before eating to keep everything fresh.

2. Can I use different meats?
Yes! Feel free to switch it up with turkey or even a vegetarian patty for a fresh take.

3. How can I make this sandwich healthier?
Baking the chicken instead of frying it, and using whole grain buns, can be a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

4. What should I serve with this sandwich?
A light salad, steamed veggies, or your favorite potato chips can be excellent companions to this sandwich.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the sandwich in the oven at 350°F until fully warmed and enjoy that crunchy goodness again!

Enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich! It’s a fantastic dish that combines crunchy, savory, and cheesy goodness. Share it around the table, and watch as everyone digs in!

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