If you’re searching for a fun twist on two classic favorites, you’ve come to the right place. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe is a total game changer, combining the rich flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese with the delicious comfort of pizza dough all wrapped up in a beautiful braided presentation. It’s the perfect dish to wow guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in with something warm, cheesy, and bursting with amazing flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From tender chicken to creamy alfredo, every component works together to build those irresistible layers of flavor that make this dish truly special.
- Cooked chopped chicken: The hearty protein base that keeps this dish satisfying and delicious.
- Diced ham: Adds a smoky, savory punch that perfectly complements the chicken.
- Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy pockets throughout the braid.
- Alfredo sauce: Brings a creamy richness that ties all the ingredients together without overpowering.
- Dijon mustard: Gives the filling a subtle tanginess that brightens every bite.
- Refrigerated pizza dough: The golden, flaky canvas for the filling; easy to work with and bakes up crispy on the outside, soft inside.
- Melted butter: Keeps the braid moist and adds a beautiful golden finish.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, savory crisp crust that finishes the look and flavor.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dough
Start by heating your oven to 400ºF to get it nice and ready for baking. Roll out your refrigerated pizza dough vertically onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving you an approximately 10×15-inch surface where your filling will shine.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss, alfredo sauce, and dijon mustard. This blend is the heart and soul of your braid, packed with flavor and just the right amount of creaminess that makes every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Spread the Filling
Carefully spread this savory mixture down the center strip of your rolled-out dough. Keeping it centered helps when you start braiding, ensuring the filling is nicely enclosed.
Step 4: Cut and Braid the Dough
Next, slice 12 even strips on each side of the dough, starting from the edge of the filling to the outer edge of the dough. Begin lifting and crossing the strips over the filling in an alternating pattern, right over left, then left over right, folding them neatly to form a stunning braid that’s as eye-catching as it is tasty.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches and Bake
Brush the entire braid with melted butter to lock in moisture and get that shining golden crust. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory crunch. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the braid is gloriously golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of green and a burst of freshness that balances the rich flavors perfectly. For an extra touch, a drizzle of Dijon mustard or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a hint of zing without stealing the spotlight.
Side Dishes
The Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or some roasted veggies can add a refreshing contrast to the richness. A light Caesar salad or even steamed asparagus makes an elegant and tasty companion.
Creative Ways to Present
This braid naturally makes a show-stopping centerpiece on any table, but you can get creative by serving individual slices on colorful plates with a side dip of ranch or creamy mustard sauce. It’s also fun to turn into finger food for a party—just slice into thin pieces that guests can easily enjoy without utensils.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making for a delicious next-day meal or snack.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the braid tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect braid texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pizza dough instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Fresh dough will work beautifully and might even add an extra layer of flavor and freshness to your braid. Just make sure to roll it out to the approximate size mentioned.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you’re not a fan of Swiss, Gruyère or mozzarella make excellent substitutes, offering a similar melt and mild flavor that complements the chicken and ham well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap chicken and ham for seasoned vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and roasted peppers with a cheese blend to maintain the creaminess and texture.
Can I prepare the braid in advance and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the braid, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Just brush it with butter and add parmesan right before it goes into the oven.
How spicy is this recipe?
On its own, this recipe is mild with just a gentle tang from the Dijon mustard. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding crushed red pepper flakes or substituting with a spicy mustard if you prefer more heat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe is truly a delight that brings a fun, flavorful spin to classic comfort foods. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or just craving something special, it’s a recipe guaranteed to impress and satisfy. So why wait? Get in the kitchen, braid up some deliciousness, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza Braid combines the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu with the fun presentation of a braided pizza. Tender cooked chicken, savory ham, creamy alfredo sauce, dijon mustard, and melty Swiss cheese are wrapped in flaky pizza dough and baked to golden perfection. It’s a deliciously comforting dish perfect for sharing with family or guests.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1¼ cups cooked chopped chicken
- ¾ cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup alfredo sauce
- 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
Dough & Topping
- 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 3 Tbsp butter (melted)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the pizza braid.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough vertically on a 10×15-inch baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, alfredo sauce, and dijon mustard. Mix well to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble Braid: Spread the chicken mixture down the center of the rolled-out dough. Cut 12 strips on each side of the dough, then lift strips of dough across the mixture alternating sides to form a braided pattern over the filling.
- Brush & Sprinkle: Brush the braided dough with melted butter to promote golden browning, then sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the braid is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before using in the filling.
- Feel free to substitute ham with prosciutto or turkey for a different flavor.
- The alfredo sauce adds moisture and creaminess, so avoid adding additional liquid to the filling mixture.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to make neat strips in the dough for easier braiding.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time slightly when cooking from chilled.
