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There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, comforting meal that’s effortlessly created while you go about your day, and that’s exactly why this Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to share. Tender chicken breasts, wrapped with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, all cooked gently in a creamy sauce and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, result in a dish that’s both elegant and homey. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your slow cooker with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and mouthwatering texture. These simple but essential components come together seamlessly, making your slow cooker work magic while you relax.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded thin for even cooking and tender results.
- 4 slices of ham: Adds smoky, savory depth that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly, lending a creamy, nutty flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates the rich, velvety base sauce that keeps everything moist.
- 1 cup of milk: Thins the soup into a smooth, luscious sauce.
- 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs: Provides a golden, buttery crunch topping that finishes the dish.
- 1/4 cup of melted butter: Helps the breadcrumbs turn crisp and savory on top.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Begin by pounding your chicken breasts until they’re an even thickness, which is crucial for uniform cooking in the slow cooker. Thinner pieces cook more gently and avoid drying out, ensuring juicy chicken in every bite.
Step 2: Assemble the Chicken Rolls
Lay one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken breast. Then tightly roll the chicken up around the filling. You can secure the rolls with toothpicks if needed to make sure they hold their shape as they cook.
Step 3: Arrange in Slow Cooker
Place the stuffed chicken rolls neatly in the base of the slow cooker. This creates a cozy bed for the creamy sauce and breadcrumb topping to meld with the chicken flavors.
Step 4: Make and Pour the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth and well combined. Pour this delicious sauce evenly over the chicken rolls, which keeps them moist and infuses rich flavor throughout the cooking process.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle this buttery crust over the top of the chicken and sauce. This step gives the dish its signature golden, crispy finish you’ll love.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. This gentle heat allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fully tender, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 7: Final Touches
When cooking is complete, carefully remove the toothpicks, season with salt and pepper as desired, and prepare to serve this classic dish that feels like a special occasion but is surprisingly easy to make.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a little thyme just before serving brings a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the creamy richness perfectly. A light drizzle of Dijon mustard or a dollop of sour cream on the side can also elevate the taste experience.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of comforting sides. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add crunch and freshness, while buttery mashed potatoes or creamy risotto soak up the luscious sauce for an indulgent meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the chicken rolls into rounds to showcase the beautiful layers of ham and Swiss cheese inside, making for an impressive presentation. Serve on a platter with the breadcrumb topping slightly browned under a broiler if you want an extra crunchy texture. For casual dinners, plate individually with sides arranged around for a cozy, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its delicious texture and flavor, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked chicken rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or placing them in a freezer-safe container. This allows for easy meal prep in advance. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking in your slow cooker.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve tenderness and keep that breadcrumb topping from becoming soggy. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power and cover the dish to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides Swiss in this Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
Absolutely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even provolone work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite cheesy twist on this classic.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken helps ensure they cook evenly and stay tender throughout the slow cooking process. It also makes rolling the ham and cheese much easier, creating a neat spiral of flavors inside.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked in the slow cooker?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Additionally, the chicken should be tender and juices clear when cut.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the seasoned breadcrumbs with a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go without compromising the wonderful crunch and texture.
What if I want to reduce calories without losing flavor?
Try using low-fat ham and cheese and opt for a light cream of chicken soup. These swaps keep the dish lighter but still satisfy your craving for that creamy, savory goodness.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like coming home to the irresistible aroma of a Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe simmering away, promising a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and find the same joy in creating and savoring it as I do. Trust me, it will become one of your go-to comfort food treasures!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: French-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic French-inspired dish with minimal effort. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, cooked slowly in a creamy sauce, and topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust, making it perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Rolls
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
Topping
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking inside the slow cooker.
- Assemble the rolls: Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, roll them up tightly, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Arrange in slow cooker: Place the rolled chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker evenly.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, mix the condensed cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth, then pour over the chicken rolls in the slow cooker.
- Add breadcrumb topping: In another bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken and sauce.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Finish and serve: Remove toothpicks carefully before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste if desired.
Notes
- Substitute different cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
- Use low-fat ham and cheese and light cream of chicken soup to reduce calories.
- For gluten-free options, use gluten-free seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Chicken rolls can be prepared the night before and refrigerated; cook in the slow cooker the next morning.
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