Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas

Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas pack all the savory flavors of the classic French dish inside a golden crispy tortilla making it an easy and comforting dinner or lunch. When my family craves something extra special but I do not want to fuss for hours this recipe does the trick every time. The creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce turns ordinary chicken ham and cheese into something you will look forward to sharing.

My family always thinks I am a genius when I make these Especially when I serve extra sauce for dipping Everyone goes back for seconds and even picky eaters ask for them now

Ingredients

• Flour tortillas: Choose large and soft tortillas to ensure easy folding and crispy edges
• Grilled chicken breast: Use leftover or freshly cooked chicken breast Slice thin for tender bites
• Deli ham: Go for a mildly smoked ham Thin slices make for easier layering and melting
• Swiss or Provolone cheese: Four slices per quesadilla Meltability is key Swiss will give you that classic flavor but Provolone works beautifully too
• Toasted breadcrumbs: Adds crunch reminiscent of cordon bleu For best results toast fresh breadcrumbs in a dry pan until golden
• Melted butter: Brushing butter onto the tortillas ensures an appetizing golden finish
• Butter: Real butter is best for both the quesadilla and the sauce
• Flour: Thickens the creamy sauce Use all purpose flour for a smooth result
• Milk: Whole or two percent milk gives the sauce perfect richness Warm semi skim is fine as well
• Chicken bouillon cube: Intensifies the sauce with a touch of savory chicken flavor
• Dijon mustard: Choose a smooth tangy Dijon for traditional flavor impact
• Hot sauce: Optional Just a couple drops for gentle heat in the sauce
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The sharpness of fresh grated Parmesan wakes up the whole sauce
• Salt and pepper: Season the sauce just before serving for bright balanced flavors

Instructions

Make the Parmesan Dijon Sauce:

Start the sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan on medium low heat Once bubbling whisk in flour until smooth Mash in the bouillon cube to infuse flavor Cook for one to two minutes stirring often so it does not color. Slowly add milk while whisking Focus on incorporating the milk gradually so the mixture stays lump free Raise the heat slightly until small bubbles form. Whisk in Dijon mustard and hot sauce Let the sauce simmer on low whisking often for five minutes or until it thickens to a pourable gravy Remove from heat Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese Taste and add salt and pepper as needed Keep warm over the lowest heat.

Toast the Breadcrumbs:

Toast fresh breadcrumbs in a small dry pan over medium heat Stir continually until they are golden brown and aromatic Set aside for layering inside the quesadilla.

Assemble the Quesadilla:

Melt a little butter in a large skillet on medium heat Place one tortilla into the skillet Spread a layer of cheese on the tortilla Arrange ham slices evenly over the cheese Sprinkle with half of the toasted breadcrumbs Add another thin layer of cheese Lay chicken breast slices over this cheese Drizzle two generous spoonfuls of the warm sauce on top Sprinkle with the rest of the toasted breadcrumbs Add a final layer of cheese. Top with the second tortilla Gently press down with a spatula.

Cook the Quesadilla:

Let it cook for three to four minutes or until the bottom is golden Carefully flip using a large spatula or two smaller spatulas Cook the other side for another three minutes until golden and the cheese is melted through.

Serve and Slice:

Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board Let it cool one minute before slicing into wedges Serve with the remaining warm sauce as a dip.

My kids once called this their favorite quesadilla ever because of the sauce I always sneak an extra spoonful over mine

Storage Tips

Store leftover sliced quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for best crispness Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the golden texture of the tortillas

Ingredient Substitutions

No Swiss cheese Try Gruyere Havarti or even shredded mozzarella instead Use turkey instead of chicken or skip the meat for a vegetarian twist You can also use gluten free tortillas and flour if needed

Serving Suggestions

Serve these quesadillas hot and fresh Cut into wedges and pair with a crisp green salad for an easy meal The sauce is stellar for dipping so pour some into small bowls for each person

Cultural Context

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish with roots in Switzerland and France The idea to tuck those same flavors inside a quesadilla is pure kitchen fusion and always a conversation starter at my table

Seasonal Adaptations

In the spring use thin sliced leftover roast chicken with pea shoots or spinach For a cozy winter treat top finished quesadillas with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley Great with a simple broth based soup in cold months Try with roasted red peppers in summer Add arugula or fresh greens just before folding for extra bite

Success Stories

Whenever I bring these to potlucks friends ask for the recipe and marvel at how quick they come together Even my pickiest nephew was won over after one bite

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze assemble quesadillas and wrap tightly in foil Freeze before cooking or after cooking and cooling completely For best results reheat from frozen in a dry skillet over medium low heat until warmed through and crispy

Try this comforting twist whenever you want an easy main dish with crowd pleasing flavors. Serve with extra sauce for dipping and enjoy every molten cheesy bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cheese works best for these quesadillas?

Swiss or provolone cheese melt perfectly and complement the ham and chicken flavors.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, prepare the Parmesan Dijon sauce ahead and reheat gently over low heat when ready to serve.

→ Is pre-cooked chicken necessary?

Using grilled or cooked chicken breast ensures the filling is flavorful and cuts down on cooking time.

→ How do I get the tortillas crispy?

Use melted butter in the skillet and cook each side until golden brown for the best crispiness.

→ What else can I serve with these quesadillas?

Offer extra sauce for dipping or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.