Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy café where comfort food reigns. This imagery inspired my version of the Crispy Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Bursting with juicy grilled chicken, salty ham, and melty Swiss cheese, this sandwich delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it offers a delightful reprieve from fast food without compromising on flavor or enjoyment. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to for busy evenings. Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game? Let’s dive in! Why is this sandwich a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: This Crispy Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich brings together juicy chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will delight your taste buds. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it takes minimal time to prepare, letting you enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss. Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Ideal for impressing family and friends alike, this sandwich is sure to be the highlight of any gathering. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute the ham with turkey or use different cheese varieties, making it adaptable to your taste preferences. Textural Delight: The crunchy exterior perfectly contrasts with the tender chicken and melty cheese, creating a satisfying bite that feels indulgent. Perfect Pairings: Serve it alongside crispy fries or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal, reminiscent of café-style dining right at home. Try this and experience comfort food at its best! Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Ingredients • All you need for a delicious bite! For the Chicken Chicken breast – The star protein that keeps this sandwich juicy; turkey is a tasty substitute. Swiss cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey texture; try provolone or mozzarella if you prefer. Ham – Adds a savory punch; prosciutto or turkey can give it a unique twist. For the Batter All-purpose flour – Helps bind the breadcrumbs; almond flour works for a gluten-free option. Egg – Acts as a binder; a flax egg or aquafaba is great for a vegan alternative. Breadcrumbs – Provides that delightful crunch; gluten-free breadcrumbs are perfect for dietary needs. Garlic powder – Enhances flavor; substitute with fresh garlic for an extra kick. Black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth; adjust to your taste preference. For Assembling Mayonnaise – Brings creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute. Dijon mustard – Adds zesty flavor; yellow mustard is a milder alternative. Sandwich bun – A sturdy base for your masterpiece; opt for whole wheat or gluten-free buns for variety. Olive oil – Used for grilling; vegetable or canola oil works just as well. Butter – For that golden crisp on the bun; swap for vegan butter if desired. These ingredients come together to create a Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Step 1: Preheat the Grill Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. It’s essential to let the grill heat up fully, which takes about 10-15 minutes, to achieve a beautifully seared exterior on your chicken and ensure it cooks evenly. Keep the grill lid closed during this time for optimal heat distribution. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken While the grill is heating, take your chicken breast and place it between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This step is vital for ensuring a tender and evenly cooked chicken in your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich. Step 3: Season the Chicken Once pounded, season both sides of the chicken breast with garlic powder and freshly cracked black pepper. This will enhance the flavor and add a warm kick to each bite. Ensure that the spices are evenly distributed, and set the chicken aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the breading station. Step 4: Set Up the Breading Station Create a breading station by placing three bowls in a line: one with all-purpose flour, another with a beat egg, and the third filled with breadcrumbs. You may want to add a pinch of salt and pepper to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. This setup will guide you through the breading process for the Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich. Step 5: Coat the Chicken Take the seasoned chicken breast and coat it thoroughly in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Finally, firmly press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, covering it completely. This creates that crispy exterior you desire once cooked. Step 6: Heat the Skillet In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Allow the oil and butter to melt and combine, creating a fragrant base for frying. Because you want to achieve a golden-brown crust, make sure the skillet is hot, but not smoking, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Step 7: Cook the Chicken Carefully add the breaded chicken to the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown. After 7 minutes, gently flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety. The chicken should be crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Step 8: Add Cheese and Ham Once the chicken is cooked, layer a slice of Swiss cheese and a piece of ham on top. To melt the cheese perfectly, cover the skillet briefly with a lid, allowing steam to help melt the cheese for about 1-2 minutes. You want the cheese to be gooey and inviting as you prepare to assemble your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich. Step 9: Prepare the Bun While the chicken is finishing up, toast your sandwich buns. Spread a small amount of butter on the cut sides of each bun and place them on a separate skillet or under a broiler for a few minutes until they turn golden and crispy. This added texture will elevate the overall experience of the finished sandwich. Step 10: Mix the Spread In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create a creamy, zesty spread. This tangy mix adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the chicken and cheese. Spread a generous layer on the bottom half of each toasted bun, ensuring excellent flavor with every bite of the Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich. Step 11: Assemble the Sandwich Now it’s time to assemble your sandwich! Place the crispy, cheese-topped chicken on the bun with the spread, and then top it with the other half of the toasted bun. Press down lightly to secure all the delicious contents together. Your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich is almost ready to devour! Step 12: Serve Immediately Slice the sandwich in half, if desired, and serve immediately while the cheese is still melty and the chicken is warm. Pair it with crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures in every tasty bite! What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Complete your meal with delightful sides and beverages that enhance your dining experience. Crispy Fries: A classic pairing, the crunch of fries complements the tender sandwich, making each bite enjoyable and satisfying. Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance and freshness to each savory bite. Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy coleslaw brings a delightful crunch, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. Garlic Butter Pasta: Soft and flavorful, this side dish brings warmth and comfort, harmonizing beautifully with the sandwich’s crispy textures. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies add an earthy element, elevating the meal with vibrant flavors and nutrition. Fruit Salad: A light, sweet option can round out your meal, offering a refreshing finish that cleanses the palate beautifully. Iced Tea or Lemonade: These drinks can cut through the richness of the sandwich, enhancing your dining pleasure while keeping the meal light and enjoyable. How to Store and Freeze Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Fridge: Keep wrapped sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in a skillet for the best results without losing texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze components separately—chicken, ham, and cheese—wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. This ensures you can enjoy your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich later! Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in a skillet until heated through, ensuring the chicken stays juicy. Assembling Fresh: For the best flavor and crunch, assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the crispy texture of the bread intact. Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Variations Feel free to get creative with these variations and make this sandwich your own—your taste buds will thank you! Cheese Swap: Try cheddar or pepper jack for an added kick to your sandwich experience. The sharpness of cheddar pairs beautifully with the savory ham. Baking Option: Bake the breaded chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, resulting in a lighter, crispy coating without frying. This method offers a healthier twist on a classic. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for a burst of freshness. The vibrant colors and flavors will elevate each bite. Turkey Alternative: Substitute chicken with turkey breast for a unique spin on the traditional recipe. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes a fantastic post-holiday treat. Flavored Mayo: Transform your mayo by mixing in sriracha or garlic for a zesty kick. This simple addition can take your sandwich from good to spectacular. Veggie Delight: Add sliced avocados or grilled zucchini for added creaminess and a nutritional boost. A little texture will make every bite more exciting! Stuffed Bun: Try stuffing the bun with sautéed mushrooms or roasted peppers for an earthy and savory flavor dimension. These additions can bring a whole new depth to your sandwich. Side Ideas: Pair it with crispy fries or a refreshing side salad for a well-rounded meal that balances indulgent and healthy flavors. Consider a mixed greens salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Stay inspired! If you’re in the mood for more chicken delicacies, check out my delicious recipes for Chipotle Grilled Chicken or savor the warmth of Thai Chicken Soup. Enjoy your cooking adventure! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by breading it up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can assemble the sandwiches (without toasting the bun) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just heat a skillet over medium heat, cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until the chicken is crispy and heated through, and then assemble with your spread. This way, you save time without sacrificing taste, delivering a delightful homemade meal with ease! Expert Tips for Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Perfect Cooking Temp: Ensure you use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring safety and juiciness. Avoid Sogginess: Let excess egg drip off the chicken before breading; this keeps the coating crispy instead of soggy. Time the Toasting: Toast your bun just before serving. This will keep it crisp and enhance the texture of your Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich. Customize Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices in your breadcrumbs to add unique flavors according to your family’s preference. Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, refrigerate the breaded chicken for about 30 minutes. This helps the coating set better during cooking, resulting in extra crispiness. Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe chicken to use for my sandwich? Absolutely! When selecting chicken breast, look for firm, pink meat without any dark spots or a slimy texture. Fresh chicken should also feel moist, but not watery. If you’re unsure, check the “sell by” date and choose the one with the latest date for optimal freshness. How should I store the leftover sandwich? For the best quality, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheating in a skillet is my favorite method, as it brings back that crispy texture without making it soggy. Just remember to heat it on low to ensure the chicken warms through without drying out. Can I freeze the components of the sandwich? Yes, indeed! To freeze, separately wrap the chicken, ham, and cheese tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet. Assembling the sandwich fresh right before serving will keep that delightful crunch intact. What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly? Very! If you’re facing uneven cooking, it could be due to the thickness of the chicken. Make sure to pound it to an even ½ inch thickness. If you encounter browning without cooking through, lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid. This will help retain heat and allow the chicken to cook thoroughly while still achieving that golden crust. Are there any dietary considerations for my family members? Certainly! If you have family members with allergies, be cautious with ingredients like egg, as some people are allergic to them. Alternatively, you can use a flax egg or aquafaba as a binding agent. For gluten-free options, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties, and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. Always double-check the labels of your substitutes to ensure they are safe for those with specific dietary needs. Can I use a different cheese for my Cordon Bleu Sandwich? Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for this sandwich, you can definitely mix it up! Cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack can provide different flavor profiles and elevate your sandwich. Just remember to adjust heating times based on how quickly your chosen cheese melts. Delicious Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich You’ll Love A delicious Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich bursting with juicy grilled chicken, salty ham, and melty Swiss cheese. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 2 sandwichesCourse: Lunch recipesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken breast Turkey is a tasty substitute.4 slices Swiss cheese Provolone or mozzarella can be used.4 slices Ham Prosciutto or turkey can be a unique twist.For the Batter1 cup All-purpose flour Almond flour works for a gluten-free option.1 large Egg A flax egg or aquafaba is a vegan alternative.1 cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs for dietary needs.1 teaspoon Garlic powder Substitute with fresh garlic for extra kick.1 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust to your taste.For Assembling4 tablespoons Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Yellow mustard is a milder alternative.2 buns Sandwich bun Whole wheat or gluten-free buns for variety.2 tablespoons Olive oil Vegetable or canola oil works as well.1 tablespoon Butter Swap for vegan butter if desired. Equipment GrillSkilletmeat malletmixing bowls Method DirectionsPreheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F) for about 10-15 minutes.Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch using plastic wrap and a meat mallet.Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder and black pepper.Set up a breading station with three bowls for flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs.Coat the chicken in flour, then beat egg, and finally press into the breadcrumbs.Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until melted.Cook the breaded chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.Layer Swiss cheese and ham on the chicken, covering with a lid for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.Toast the sandwich buns until golden crispy; spread butter on cut sides.Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, then spread it on the bottom half of each bun.Assemble the sandwich by placing the chicken on the bun and topping with the other half.Slice in half if desired and serve immediately with fries or salad. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesPerfect for an easy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with delicious flavor and texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!