There's something special about biting into a warm, crispy sandwich filled with tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese. This Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe brings the elegance of French cuisine right into your kitchen without any fuss or fancy techniques. I've been making this classic chicken ham and cheese sandwich for years, and it never fails to impress my family.
What makes this recipe so incredible is how it takes the beloved flavors of traditional chicken cordon bleu and transforms them into an easy lunch sandwich idea that's ready in just 25 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to treat yourself to a gourmet chicken sandwich, this Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every single time. The combination of golden, breaded chicken with the salty ham and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Classic French-Inspired Sandwich Wins Every Time
The beauty of a homemade cordon bleu sandwich lies in its simplicity and versatility. While the original chicken cordon bleu requires rolling and stuffing, this sandwich version gives you all those amazing flavors with half the work. The crispy chicken cutlet sandwich base provides the perfect crunch, while the warm cheesy chicken sandwich filling stays melty and delicious.
This Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe has become my go-to when I need something that feels fancy but doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, crispy fries, or even a bowl of tomato soup. The Dijon mustard sauce adds a tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese, making each bite perfectly balanced. Whether you're making it for lunch or dinner, this easy cordon bleu sandwich recipe proves that good food doesn't have to be complicated.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vegetable oil
For Assembly
- Ciabatta rolls or French bread
- Deli ham
- Swiss cheese
- Butter
For the Sauce
- Lemon juice
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
- Use a meat mallet to pound each piece to about ¼-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow bowls; flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko mixed with garlic powder and paprika in the third.
Breading and Cooking
- Coat each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, letting extra drip off.
- Press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure both sides are completely covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Making the Sauce and Assembling
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Slice your bread rolls in half and lightly butter the cut sides.
- Toast the buttered sides in a clean skillet or under the broiler until golden.
- Spread the Dijon sauce generously on both sides of each toasted roll.
- Layer ham slices on the bottom half of each roll.
- Place the hot crispy chicken on top of the ham.
- Add Swiss cheese slices over the chicken while it's still warm so the cheese begins to melt.
Final Touch and Serving
- Serve immediately while the chicken is crispy and the cheese is melty.
- If the cheese hasn't melted enough, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 30-60 seconds.
- Add the top bun and press down gently.
- Cut each sandwich in half diagonally for easier eating.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Perfect the Breading Process The key to a truly crispy chicken cordon bleu sandwich is in the breading technique. Make sure your chicken is completely dry before you start coating it. Pat it with paper towels to remove any moisture. When pressing the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken, use your palm to really press them in; this creates a coating that won't fall off during cooking.
- Temperature Control Matters Don't rush the cooking process by cranking up the heat too high. Medium-high heat gives you that perfect golden crust without burning the breadcrumbs before the chicken cooks through. If your breadcrumbs are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Cheese Melting Secrets For the best melted Swiss cheese experience, place it on the hot chicken immediately after cooking. The residual heat starts the melting process. If you want extra-melty cheese, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking, or use the broiler trick mentioned in the instructions.
- Sauce Distribution Don't skimp on the Dijon mustard sauce; it's what makes this Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe authentic. Spread it all the way to the edges of the bread so every bite gets that tangy flavor. You can make the sauce up to three days ahead and keep it refrigerated.
- Bread Selection Impact The right bread makes or breaks your sandwich. Ciabatta and French bread have a sturdy structure that holds up to the juicy chicken and melted cheese without getting soggy. Toasting the bread creates a barrier that keeps everything crisp longer.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Cooking Method Variations
- Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Instead of pan-frying, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray the breaded chicken with cooking oil before baking for extra crispiness. This method is healthier and less messy than frying.
- Cordon Bleu Sandwich Air Fryer Method Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Cook the breaded chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives you a crispy exterior with minimal oil, making it perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
- Grilled Cordon Bleu Sandwich Skip the breading entirely and grill seasoned chicken breasts. Assemble the sandwich with ham and cheese, then grill the whole sandwich panini-style for a different take on this classic.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Protein Swaps Try turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option. Pork cutlets also work wonderfully and stay closer to the traditional cordon bleu preparation. For a cordon bleu sandwich with turkey, follow the same breading and cooking process.
- Cheese Alternatives While Swiss cheese is traditional, Gruyere adds a nuttier flavor profile. Provolone offers a milder taste, while fontina brings extra creaminess. Experiment to find your favorite combination for this easy cordon bleu sandwich recipe.
- Dietary Modifications For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and bread. Low-carb enthusiasts can skip the breading and use lettuce wraps instead of bread. Make it dairy-free by using vegan cheese alternatives.
Creative Twists
- Transform your chicken cordon bleu sandwich into sliders for parties by using Hawaiian rolls. Add sliced tomatoes and lettuce for extra freshness. Try different mustards like whole grain or spicy brown for a flavor variation. Some people love adding a thin layer of cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory combination.
Equipment Recommendations
- Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan; ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken every time
- Meat mallet; essential for pounding chicken to uniform thickness
- Three shallow bowls or plates; makes the breading station organized and efficient
- Instant-read meat thermometer; takes the guesswork out of knowing when chicken is done
- Tongs; for safely flipping chicken without piercing the breading
- Wire cooling rack; keeps fried chicken crispy by allowing air circulation
- Sharp bread knife; cleanly cuts through crusty bread without squashing your sandwich
- Small whisk; perfect for mixing the Dijon mustard sauce until smooth
Budget-friendly tip: If you don't have a meat mallet, use a rolling pin or even a heavy can wrapped in plastic wrap to pound the chicken for your chicken ham and cheese sandwich.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked breaded chicken separately from the bread and toppings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps well in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. When ready to eat your Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe leftovers, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze the breaded, cooked chicken cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags once solid. They'll keep for up to 2 months. Don't freeze assembled sandwiches as the bread becomes soggy. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Meal Prep Strategy
- Bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined tray for up to 24 hours before cooking. Prepare the sauce in advance and keep it ready in the fridge. Toast your bread fresh when you're ready to assemble for the best texture. This prep work makes throwing together a quick cordon bleu lunch incredibly easy on busy days.
The Golden Rule That Changes Everything
Here's what most people don't know about making the perfect crispy chicken cordon bleu sandwich: let your breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before cooking. This simple step allows the breading to set and adhere better to the chicken, which means it's far less likely to fall off during cooking. My grandmother taught me this trick, and it's been a game-changer.
Another secret that'll take your Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe to the next level is adding a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to your panko breadcrumbs. This creates an extra layer of flavor and helps the crust brown more beautifully. The Parmesan also adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the Swiss cheese perfectly. These two simple techniques transform a good sandwich into an absolutely spectacular one.
FAQ
What is a cordon bleu sandwich?
A cordon bleu sandwich is a handheld version of the classic French dish chicken cordon bleu. It features breaded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese on toasted bread with Dijon mustard sauce. This Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe simplifies the traditional rolled and stuffed preparation into an easy-to-make sandwich format.
What is Arby's chicken cordon bleu sandwich?
Arby's chicken cordon bleu sandwich was a limited-time menu item featuring crispy chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon sauce on a toasted bun. While it's no longer regularly available, you can easily recreate a better version at home with this chicken cordon bleu sandwich recipe.
What cheese goes with cordon bleu?
Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for any Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe because of its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting properties. Gruyere is another authentic option that's commonly used in French cuisine. Both cheeses complement the ham and chicken perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
What is the origin of the Cordon Bleu sandwich?
The term "cordon bleu" means "blue ribbon" in French and originally referred to an award of excellence. Chicken cordon bleu likely originated in Switzerland in the 1940s, inspired by the traditional veal version. The sandwich adaptation is an American creation that makes this classic dish more casual and accessible while maintaining the essential flavors.
Enjoy Your Homemade Gourmet Creation
This Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or visit an expensive restaurant to enjoy amazing food. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe helps you create a crispy, cheesy, and savory meal in only 25 minutes. Each bite of this homemade Cordon Bleu Sandwich bursts with flavor — golden breaded chicken, smoky ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a tangy Dijon sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re making this chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to impress. Once you try this Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites for quick, restaurant-quality comfort food.
Now that you've mastered this warm cheesy chicken sandwich, why not try other delicious recipes? Check out our Spinach Puff Pastries RecipeSpinach Puff Pastries Recipe for an elegant appetizer that's perfect for parties, or try the Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe for another crowd-pleasing dish. Both pair wonderfully with this Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe for a complete French-inspired menu. Don't forget to share your sandwich creations in the comments below and let us know how yours turned out!
With love & good food
By Lisa Johnson 🥪
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Cordon Bleu Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan For evenly cooking chicken cutlets
- 1 Meat mallet For pounding chicken to uniform thickness
- 3 Shallow bowls To set up the breading station
- 1 Instant-read meat thermometer Ensures chicken reaches 165°F
- 1 Pair of tongs For flipping chicken without damaging coating
- 1 Wire cooling rack Keeps fried chicken crispy
- 1 Sharp bread knife For slicing sandwich halves neatly
- 1 Small whisk For mixing Dijon mustard sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts About 1 lb, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour First coating layer
- 2 large eggs, beaten Helps breadcrumbs adhere
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs For extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds flavor depth
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds smoky color
- salt and pepper To taste
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil For pan-frying chicken
- 4 ciabatta rolls or French bread Toasted for serving
- 4 slices deli ham Traditional Black Forest ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese Melts perfectly (or use Gruyere)
- 2 tablespoon butter For toasting bread
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise For sauce
- 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds tanginess
- 1 tablespoon honey Balances sharp flavors
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice Adds freshness
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets and pound to ¼ inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, and coat fully with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice for sauce.
- Butter and toast ciabatta rolls until golden.
- Assemble: spread sauce, add ham, chicken, and Swiss cheese. Broil briefly to melt.
- Serve warm and enjoy while crispy.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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