Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas combine all the comforting flavors of the classic dish into an easy-to-make treat. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they offer gooey cheese, savory chicken ham, and crispy tortillas. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic twist!

What makes these quesadillas truly special is the creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce that ties everything together. It’s rich and flavorful, elevating this simple meal into something extraordinary. And the best part? You can whip them up in just about 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy goodness! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty twist on a classic.
• Make-ahead convenience: The sauce can be prepared ahead of time, making it easy to throw together when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable flavors: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Quesadillas:

• 1 8-10 inch flour tortilla
• ¼ cup grilled chicken breast (sliced)
• 2-3 slices deli chicken ham
• 4 slices of Swiss or Provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Parmesan Dijon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Dash hot sauce (optional)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about these Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas is their flexibility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste or make use of what you have at home.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not feeling chicken ham, try turkey or even some sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Use cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Sautéed mushrooms or spinach can add some extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a spicy cheese blend for those who like a kick!

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

To start, melt butter in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat. Whisk in flour and add the chicken bouillon cube. Cooking this mixture for 1-2 minutes helps develop flavor while thickening your sauce. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously—it’s important to do this slowly to avoid lumps! Add the Dijon mustard and optional hot sauce, cooking until thickened. Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Keep this warm over low heat as it will be drizzled over your quesadillas later.

Step 2: Assemble Your Quesadilla

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Place one tortilla shell in the skillet as your base. Start layering with one slice of cheese followed by chicken ham. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for crunch before adding another layer of cheese and sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with a couple spoonfuls of your warm sauce, then sprinkle with more breadcrumbs and finish with another slice of cheese on top.

Step 3: Cook Until Golden Brown

Carefully top with another tortilla shell and cook until the bottom is golden brown—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Flip it gently using a spatula; it’s important that both sides are cooked evenly so that your fillings are warmed through and melty! Cook until both sides are beautifully browned.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once perfectly cooked, remove from heat and cut into slices. Serve with any remaining Parmesan Dijon sauce for dipping—it’s absolutely divine! Enjoy every cheesy bite with friends or family; these quesadillas are sure to become a beloved favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas

Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas is a delightful and straightforward process, but here are a few tips to elevate your dish even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh grilled chicken and quality deli ham make a big difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and texture of your quesadillas.
• Control Your Heat: Cooking over medium heat ensures that the cheese melts perfectly while avoiding burnt tortillas. This helps maintain that gooey, cheesy interior without compromising the outer layer.
• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Customizing allows you to cater to your taste preferences and makes the recipe more versatile.
• Make Extra Sauce: The creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce is simply irresistible! Making extra not only allows for dipping but also lets you enjoy it on other dishes, like roasted vegetables or pasta.
• Cut Evenly for Sharing: When slicing your quesadilla, cut it into equal wedges. This not only makes for beautiful presentation but also ensures everyone gets a fair share of those delicious layers!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas can be as fun as making them! With just a bit of creativity, you can turn this simple dish into a feast that impresses everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives provide a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens up each bite.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the richness of the quesadilla.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing zing that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens tossed in a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy quesadillas.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini drizzled with olive oil make for a nutritious side that pairs well with the quesadilla’s flavors.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and are an excellent alternative to traditional fries, offering both crunch and nutrition.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors while adding texture.

These suggestions will help you create an inviting meal that’s sure to please family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas!

Make Ahead and Storage

Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer to keep them crispy, place parchment paper between layers.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped quesadillas in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• If using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over the quesadilla to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish!

Can I use different types of cheese for Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?

Absolutely! While Swiss and Provolone are fantastic options, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

How do I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas healthier?

You can make these quesadillas healthier by using whole wheat tortillas and reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese varieties. Adding more veggies is also a great way to increase the nutritional value!

Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes! These quesadillas are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to cook.

What sides go well with Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?

These quesadillas pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some homemade guacamole for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas! This recipe combines comfort food with convenience, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss. With gooey cheese and savory chicken ham wrapped in a crispy tortilla, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!