Why It’s Great

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli takes the beloved flavors of the classic dish and makes them easy to enjoy in a new way. The juicy chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheese combination wrapped in a crispy crust offers a satisfying crunch. This stromboli is versatile, can be served as a main course or a party snack, and is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Using store-bought pizza dough makes it a quick and convenient option for busy nights or impromptu gatherings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
• 8 slices of deli ham
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for brushing)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12×14 inches.
3. Layer the ingredients: Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Arrange the slices of ham evenly over the mustard, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Finally, layer the cooked chicken on top.
4. Roll the stromboli: Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges and ends by pinching the dough together. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add the egg wash and garnish: Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish. Sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds if desired. For extra richness, you can brush the top with melted butter after baking.
6. Bake: Bake the stromboli in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool and slice: Allow the stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into thick pieces. Serve warm, with additional mustard or a side salad if desired.

Storing and Preserving

Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. To freeze before baking, tightly wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Add extra baking time when baking from frozen.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

1. Soggy crust: Ensure that the chicken is well-drained and patted dry before adding it to the stromboli. Avoid overfilling with too much cheese or sauce to prevent a soggy crust.
2. Uncooked dough: Reduce the filling slightly and bake until the crust is deeply golden to prevent uncooked dough. If needed, cover with foil to avoid over-browning.
3. Leaking filling: Roll the dough tightly, seal the edges, and brush with egg wash to prevent the filling from leaking out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella for a different flavor.
2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the stromboli a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
3. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
   Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers make great additions, but be sure to drain them well to avoid a soggy crust.
4. How do I keep the crust crispy when reheating?
   Reheat the stromboli in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain a crispy crust.
5. Can I make a gluten-free version of this stromboli?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free pizza dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.