This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu is a tasty mix of chicken, ham, and cheese all wrapped up in one delicious package. Plus, it’s super simple to make! Just let your slow cooker do the magic.
Honestly, this dish is like a hug on a plate! I love serving it with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s great for busy days when you want something yummy waiting for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts provide the best texture for rolling. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just make sure to cook for a little longer since thighs may take more time.
Deli Ham: Typically, I use thinly sliced deli ham for its convenience. If you want a healthier option, look for a low-sodium version, or you can substitute turkey ham if you prefer.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese gives a lovely melty texture, but you can easily swap it for mozzarella or provolone if that’s what you have on hand. They also melt well and taste great!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also make your own by crushing up some plain crackers!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This provides creaminess, but you could substitute with any cream soup you like, such as cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
How Do You Roll Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Rolling chicken breasts can be a bit tricky, but with these steps, you’ll keep it neat! Start by pounding the breasts to an even thickness, which makes rolling them easier and helps them cook evenly.
- Cover the chicken with plastic wrap to avoid mess.
- Gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/2 inch thick.
- Layer the ham and cheese nicely while leaving a little edge. This way, when you roll it up, the filling doesn’t spill out.
- Secure the rolls with toothpicks and place them seam-side down in the slow cooker to keep them sealed as they cook.
With these tips, you’ll get perfectly rolled chicken ready for your slow cooker in no time!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you can let your slow cooker do all the work for 4 to 5 hours on low. By the time you’re ready to eat, your home will smell amazing and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
2. Add Ham and Cheese:
On each flattened chicken breast, place one slice of deli ham and one slice of Swiss cheese. Roll the chicken up tightly and secure it with toothpicks if you need to. This keeps the filling inside while it cooks.
3. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. This will give your chicken a tasty and crunchy coating!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Lightly brush each chicken roll with olive oil, then coat them evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each roll is well-covered for maximum flavor.
5. Place in the Slow Cooker:
Carefully place the coated chicken rolls in the slow cooker. It’s best to arrange them seam-side down, which helps keep everything together.
6. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, milk, and Dijon mustard (if using). This creamy sauce will add moisture and flavor to the dish. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken rolls in the slow cooker.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 4 to 5 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and very tender when done.
8. Final Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over each chicken roll, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu hot, alongside your favorite sides—like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to thaw them completely first. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the safe cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quick thawing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this chicken cordon bleu gluten-free, simply substitute the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check labels on your cream soup for gluten as well!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls and coat them with breadcrumbs up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Just add the sauce in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
