Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu

A Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich is the ultimate upgrade to your lunch game and a surefire crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines smoky grilled chicken with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese layered onto a crusty sandwich roll then finished with crispy veggies and tangy Dijon. It is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend picnics and always delivers serious flavor in every bite.

I started making this at home after craving a restaurant classic but wanting more control over quality and freshness. Now my family loves this sandwich for relaxed weekends with just a touch of bistro flair.

Ingredients

• Grilled chicken breasts: Choose juicy high-quality breasts with a little char for best taste
• Ham: Adds rich saltiness Seek out thin slices from the deli counter for easy layering
• Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and brings mild nuttiness Select real Swiss for that signature flavor
• Whole wheat sandwich rolls: Adds wholesome texture Go for sturdy bakery rolls so your sandwich holds together
• Dijon mustard: Brings brightness and zip Go for the smooth classic for balanced heat
• Lettuce leaves: Adds crunch and freshness Choose crisp romaine or butter lettuce
• Tomato slices: Offer sweet juiciness Choose ripe yet firm tomatoes for neat slices
• Salt and pepper: Seasoning brings all the flavors together Freshly ground is ideal

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper If using raw chicken heat your grill or skillet over medium heat and cook the breasts five to six minutes per side until golden with grill marks and fully cooked through Rest the chicken for three minutes before handling for juiciest results

Assemble the Sandwich:

Slice the cooked chicken breasts horizontally for even thinner pieces Slice rolls in half and spread Dijon mustard on the inside of each half making sure to cover all the way to the edges for full flavor distribution

Layer the Ingredients:

On the bottom half of each roll lay down one piece of chicken followed by a slice of ham and Swiss cheese Stack a second round for more filling if desired

Toast the Sandwich:

Place the assembled sandwich onto a hot grill pan or skillet Press it gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread crisp up Let cook for three to four minutes on each side until the cheese becomes gooey and the roll turns deep golden and crisp

Add Fresh Ingredients:

Remove the sandwiches from the heat before opening carefully Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices for brightness and crunch then close the sandwich back up

Serve:

Cut sandwiches in half with a sharp knife This makes them easy to serve immediately while the cheese is perfectly melty and the bread still crisp

Swiss cheese is the ingredient my family always looks forward to because it melts so creamy and rich My son first called it a Wonder Sandwich when he was little and the name stuck so now we ask for Wonder Sandwich night

Storage Tips

Store leftover sandwiches tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to two days For best texture reheat in a skillet so the bread stays crisp and the cheese remelts If prepping ahead keep the fresh vegetables separate and add them just before serving so they stay crunchy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey for ham if you have it on hand or use provolone in place of Swiss cheese Pick spicy mustard for an extra kick You can also use a crusty ciabatta or classic French baguette if you prefer a heartier roll

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is extra good with a side of oven fries or a simple green salad A handful of kettle chips and a north country pickle take it into diner territory I sometimes make mini versions as sliders for easy party food

Cultural Context

Chicken Cordon Bleu has European roots drawing from French cuisine with its signature pairing of ham and Swiss cheese This sandwich spins the classic into a casual version perfect for home cooks craving those same flavors with less fuss and more comfort

Seasonal Adaptations

Grill the chicken outdoors in summer for smoky flavor Use garden tomatoes and lettuce for extra freshness Lightly brush the rolls with olive oil before toasting in colder months for crispier crust

Helpful Notes

Go easy on the mustard if serving kids Layer cheese between chicken and ham for best melt Press sandwiches gently while grilling so everything heats evenly

Success Stories

Friends rave every time I make these for game day get togethers No one can resist that gooey cheese pull I have also packed them for beach picnics and they are always the first snack to disappear

Freezer Meal Conversion

Cook and cool the chicken then assemble the sandwiches without the fresh veggies Wrap tightly and freeze individually To serve thaw then toast in a skillet or panini press adding fresh greens at the end

This sandwich makes any lunch feel gourmet and is loved by everyone at my table. Give it a try for a satisfying meal that is always worth the few extra minutes.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of cheese for this sandwich?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for Cordon Bleu, you can substitute with provolone, Gruyère, or mozzarella depending on your preference. Each cheese will offer a slightly different flavor profile while still complementing the chicken and ham.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crispy french fries, sweet potato chips, a light green salad, or a cup of tomato soup. For a healthier option, try serving with fresh fruit or a small portion of pasta salad.

→ How can I make this sandwich healthier?

To create a lighter version, use grilled chicken breast tenderloins, reduced-sodium ham, low-fat Swiss cheese, and whole grain rolls. Add extra vegetables like spinach, cucumber or avocado, and consider using Greek yogurt mixed with a small amount of Dijon instead of full-strength mustard.

→ Can I prepare these sandwiches in advance for a party?

Yes! You can assemble these sandwiches without the lettuce and tomato, wrap them in foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, heat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Add the fresh vegetables just before serving.

→ What's the best way to grill the chicken for this sandwich?

For the juiciest chicken, marinate boneless breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep the juices locked in.

→ Can I make this in a panini press?

A panini press works perfectly for this sandwich! Assemble as directed, lightly butter the outside of the rolls, and cook in a preheated panini press for about 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and grill marks appear. Add the fresh vegetables after pressing.