As I flipped through my recipe book, a familiar craving hit me—a classic chicken cordon bleu, but with a twist. Enter Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas, the perfect blend of crispy tortillas and gooey, melty goodness! This easy and quick dish transforms the beloved flavors of a traditional favorite into a delightful handheld meal. It’s a clever way to enjoy that savory ham and tender chicken, all complemented by a creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce that promises to elevate your pizza nights or lunch breaks. These quesadillas are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic dish to whip up when you’re short on time. Curious how to create this cheesy wonder? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these quesadillas so amazing?
Easy preparation: This recipe merges the beloved Chicken Cordon Bleu with the simplicity of quesadillas, making it perfect for any weeknight meal.
Gooey perfection: With layers of melted Swiss cheese and savory ham, each bite comes packed with flavor.
Quick cooking time: Ready in just under 30 minutes, these quesadillas are a fantastic option for busy days.
Crowd-pleaser: Great for all ages, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or snacking during game day.
Versatile ingredients: You can mix it up by experimenting with different types of cheeses or even using leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Try pairing them with a refreshing side salad or enjoy alongside a bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken for a full meal!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas Ingredients
For the Quesadilla
• Flour Tortillas – These serve as the base; opt for 8-10 inch size for the best foldability.
• Grilled Chicken Breast – Adds necessary protein; feel free to substitute with store-bought breaded chicken for convenience.
• Deli Ham – Provides saltiness and flavor; choose your favorite deli variety for a personal touch.
• Swiss or Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture; swap for your favorite melting cheese if desired.
• Toasted Breadcrumbs – Offers a crunchy contrast; homemade or store-bought will work just fine.
• Melted Butter – Helps achieve golden-brown tortillas; olive oil can also be used for a healthier choice.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Butter – A key ingredient for the silky sauce base.
• Flour – Used as a thickening agent; it’s essential for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.
• Milk – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; any type of milk will do.
• Chicken Bouillon Cube – Enhances the sauce’s flavor depth; can be replaced with chicken stock for ease.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a delightful tang; feel free to substitute with whole grain mustard if preferred.
• Hot Sauce (optional) – Adds a kick if you like it spicy; omit it for a milder experience.
• Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – A final flourish of flavor for the sauce; any hard cheese can be a great alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste to enhance all the delicious flavors.
Now you’re just a few steps away from creating these mouthwatering Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas! Ready to dive in?
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while stirring constantly until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in one chicken bouillon cube, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and if desired, a dash of hot sauce. Finish by mixing in ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and keep warm on low heat.
Step 2: Prepare Quesadilla
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of melted butter over medium heat until it sizzles. As the skillet warms, have your flour tortillas ready. You’ll be layering the Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas right in this hot skillet, so ensure the butter coats the bottom well for that perfect golden color.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Place one tortilla in the skillet, allowing it to warm slightly. On top, layer with ½ cup of Swiss or provolone cheese, followed by slices of deli ham, ½ cup of shredded grilled chicken breast, and ¼ cup of toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Then, drizzle with some of the creamy sauce before adding another tortilla on top.
Step 4: Cook Quesadilla
Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes, checking for a golden-brown color on the bottom. Once you see a nice crisp, carefully flip it over using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side or until the cheese melts completely and the tortilla is golden and delightful.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a minute, then slice into wedges. Serve immediately with the reserved creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce drizzled on top or as a dip for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, you can assemble the quesadillas by layering the ingredients (tortilla, cheese, ham, chicken, breadcrumbs) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, heat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy, while warming up the prepared sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum convenience!
Expert Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas
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Heat Control: Maintain medium heat while cooking to ensure the quesadilla is crispy on the outside and the cheese melts perfectly without burning.
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Cheese Choice: Opt for grated Swiss or provolone cheese for better melting, as it combines beautifully with the other flavors in your Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas.
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Easy Flipping: To avoid spills, don’t overfill your quesadilla; keep it simple with just enough fillings to enjoy the flavor without difficulty flipping it.
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Crispy Finish: Brush tortillas with melted butter before cooking to enhance the golden-brown crust. You can substitute with olive oil for a healthier choice.
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Sauce Consistency: Keep the creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce warm and stir frequently to prevent it from thickening too much before serving—it should be luscious and easy to drizzle.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas Variations
Feel free to get creative with your quesadillas and make them uniquely yours!
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Turkey Swap: Use sliced turkey instead of chicken for a lighter take that still delivers on flavor. It’s a great option if you have leftover holiday turkey!
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Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack to kick up the flavor profile. Each cheese offers its own twist that can surprise your taste buds.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken and ham for roasted vegetables or tofu for a filling vegetarian version. Add some bell peppers and onions for a delightful crunch.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs without missing out on that wonderful quesadilla experience. They can be just as tasty and satisfying!
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Herb Addition: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the filling for a fresh, aromatic boost. These herbs can add such brightness and depth to your dish!
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Spicy Kick: Fold in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for those who enjoy a little heat. These spicy additions can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
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Salsa Layer: Consider adding a layer of salsa or pico de gallo inside the quesadilla for an added burst of flavor. The freshness will complement the creamy sauce beautifully!
For more inspiration, try pairing these with a refreshing Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad or a comforting bowl of Mediterranean Chicken Bowls for a delightful meal experience.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness and crispy texture of the tortillas.
Freezer: Freeze quesadillas individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This allows for easy reheating later on.
Reheating: To reheat, place the quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave it, but it may lose some crispness.
Serving Freshness: For the best experience, enjoy the Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas fresh but don’t hesitate to save them for later—perfect for those busy days!
What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?
These delightful quesadillas create a comforting yet vibrant meal perfect for sharing with family and friends.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Fresh and crunchy, this slaw balances the richness of the quesadillas with its crisp textures and tangy dressing.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and olive oil, these green beans bring a bright freshness that complements the savory flavors of the quesadillas wonderfully.
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Herbed Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy, a salad made with quinoa, fresh herbs, and a zingy vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch that pairs beautifully with cheesy goodness.
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Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, add a little heat with these roasted potatoes that elevate the entire meal’s taste.
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Caesar Salad: A classic side, its crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a delightful contrast and enhance the hearty quesadilla experience.
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Cucumber Mint Cooler: A refreshing drink infused with cucumber and mint keeps the meal light, making it fantastic for warm days and casual gatherings.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies that melt in your mouth, perfect for balancing the savory main dish.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best tortillas for quesadillas?
Absolutely! For the best Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas, opt for 8-10 inch flour tortillas. They provide the perfect size to tuck the delicious fillings without tearing. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free options for some variety, depending on your dietary preferences.
What is the best way to store leftover quesadillas?
Very! To store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in a skillet for that sought-after crispness.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your quesadillas, first, let them cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped quesadillas in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side or until crispy and warmed through.
Is there a way to make these quesadillas healthier?
Very! You can make Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken or turkey, reducing the amount of cheese, or opting for low-fat alternatives. Additionally, whole grain or gluten-free tortillas are excellent substitutes. If you want to add veggies, try adding spinach or peppers for an extra nutrition boost!
What if my quesadilla fillings are leaking out while cooking?
I often have this little challenge when I’m in a hurry! To avoid spills, it’s important not to overfill your quesadilla because too much stuffing can make flipping tricky. Stick with a moderate amount of cheese, ham, and chicken. Make sure the skillet is hot enough before placing the quesadilla in, and use a sturdy spatula for flipping.
Can my pets eat leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?
Very! While it might be tempting, remember that dogs should avoid ingredients like onions and excessive spices found in some quesadillas. If you want to share, remove those elements and offer a small piece of plain chicken and tortilla instead. Always consult your vet when introducing new foods into your pet’s diet!
Irresistible Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while stirring until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in one chicken bouillon cube, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a dash of hot sauce. Mix in ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and keep warm.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of melted butter over medium heat until it sizzles. Have flour tortillas ready for layering.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, warm slightly. Layer with ½ cup of cheese, slices of deli ham, ½ cup of shredded chicken, and ¼ cup of breadcrumbs, then drizzle with some creamy sauce before adding another tortilla on top.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, check for golden-brown color on the bottom. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cheese melts and tortilla is golden.
- Remove quesadilla from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, slice into wedges, and serve immediately with reserved creamy sauce.
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