Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu takes comfort food to the next level with its smoky, savory elegance. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with layers of ham and Swiss cheese, then enveloped in a crispy, seasoned coating that’s impossible to resist.
The star of this dish is its incredible depth of flavor. From the subtle smokiness to the rich, creamy Dijon sauce, every bite delivers a perfect balance of tang, spice, and indulgence. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can master at home.
Whether you’re impressing guests or elevating your weeknight dinner, this Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu promises a memorable dining experience. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete this culinary masterpiece.
Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu Ingredients
Chicken Breasts: The tender canvas of this dish, perfectly suited to absorb the smoky essence while remaining juicy and flavorful.
Thick-Cut Deli Ham: Adds a savory depth and a touch of saltiness, perfectly complementing the rich, melted cheese.
Swiss Cheese: A creamy, tangy core that oozes with every bite, tying all the flavors together.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The golden, crispy coating that delivers a satisfying crunch, balancing the dish’s rich interior.
Dijon Mustard: The heart of the tangy cream sauce, offering a zesty kick to elevate the smoky, savory elements.
Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs
Recipe Tips
- Secure the Filling: Ensure the ham and Swiss cheese are tightly rolled and secured inside the chicken breast. Use toothpicks to seal the pocket, preventing the cheese from leaking out while smoking. Remember to remove them before serving.
- Maintain Consistent Temperature: Preheat your smoker to 275°F and monitor the temperature throughout. A steady heat ensures the chicken cooks evenly while retaining its juiciness and absorbing the smoky flavor. Avoid opening the smoker lid frequently to maintain optimal heat.
- Perfect Breaded Coating: For a crispy golden crust, make sure the panko breadcrumbs stick evenly. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken after dredging it in the wet mixture. This step helps create the crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, cheesy interior.
What to Serve with Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes make a comforting and hearty side dish that complements the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken. Add roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Grilled Asparagus: The fresh, crisp bite of lightly charred asparagus balances the richness of the chicken. Toss the asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling for an elegant touch.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness. Consider adding sliced apples or dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake the chicken instead of smoking it?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The smoky flavor will be missing, but it will still taste delicious.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. You can stuff and bread the chicken up to a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, then smoke or bake it fresh for the best results.
3. What’s a good substitute for Swiss cheese?
Gruyère or provolone are excellent alternatives that melt well and provide similar creamy, savory flavors.
4. How can I make the Dijon cream sauce spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick. Adjust to taste and balance with a touch more brown sugar if needed.
This Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a showstopper dish perfect for gatherings or indulgent dinners. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Smoked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 slices of thick-cut deli ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- Wet Dredge:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- Dry Dredge:
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Hey Grill Hey Chicken Rub
- Dijon Cream Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Begin by setting your smoker to a temperature of 275°F. Allow it to fully preheat before proceeding with the recipe.
- Prepare the Chicken: Create a pocket in each chicken breast using the tip of a sharp knife. On a flat surface, lay out the ham slices, placing one slice of Swiss cheese atop each piece. Roll the ham and cheese together, using two ham slices per piece of cheese. Insert the rolled ham and cheese into the pocket of each chicken breast, securing the opening with toothpicks to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
- Coat the Chicken: In one shallow dish, lightly whisk the eggs and milk to create the wet dredge. In a separate dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the chicken seasoning to form the dry dredge. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated, and then press it into the seasoned breadcrumbs until evenly covered on all sides.
- Smoke the Chicken: Position the prepared chicken breasts directly onto the grates of the preheated smoker. Close the lid and smoke for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, flipping each piece once midway through. Remove the chicken from the smoker once its internal temperature reaches 165°F, as measured by a meat thermometer.
- Prepare the Dijon Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended. Keep the sauce chilled until ready to serve.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the smoked chicken cordon bleu from the smoker and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm, accompanied by the prepared Dijon cream sauce for a flavorful finish.
