
Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas bring together the best of French-inspired comfort food and easy hand-held meals. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something fun and hearty without a lot of fuss. Layers of tender chicken, smoky ham, and gooey cheese all come together in a crispy tortilla for a dish the whole family will love.
I whipped up these chicken cordon bleu quesadillas after a crazy week when my fridge only had odds and ends. Now whenever I have leftover baked chicken I know exactly what to make for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: choose a juicy rotisserie or home-cooked chicken for best flavor and shred or chop it
- Large flour tortillas: burrito size makes folding and filling a breeze and gives you sturdy quesadillas that crisp up well
- Ham: opt for freshly sliced or a good-quality deli ham for a meaty boost and a bit of saltiness
- Shredded Swiss cheese: for that classic cordon bleu flavor go for mozzarella or Gruyere if you like a milder or nuttier taste
- Dijon mustard: adds tang and a punch of classic flavor use a smooth one for easy spreading
- Mayonnaise: totally optional but if you want an extra creamy filling this makes a difference
- Butter: this is your secret to a golden crispy tortilla use real butter for rich flavor
- Salt and black pepper: seasoning matters sprinkle lightly and taste as you mix so your filling is just right
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix up the chicken with Dijon mustard mayonnaise salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir until every piece is coated and creamy and the flavor is even throughout. The Dijon gives a nice tang and ties everything together.
- Build the Quesadillas:
- Lay a tortilla out on a flat work surface. On one half scatter a generous handful of shredded cheese then top with a portion of the prepared chicken followed by the ham. Add another light layer of cheese over the top to help everything melt together. Fold the tortilla into a half moon pressing gently so the filling stays put.
- Toast the Quesadillas:
- Set a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up fully. Melt a little butter so it coats the surface then lay in the quesadilla. Cook for about two to three minutes per side pressing gently until each side is deep golden brown and the cheese is gooey and melted. Add more butter for each batch if needed.
- Slice and Serve:
- Transfer each quesadilla to a cutting board. Let it sit for a minute to help the filling settle then slice into wedges. Serve hot with honey mustard sauce Dijon cream or a crisp green salad for contrast.

My favorite part of these quesadillas is the crusty edges where the cheese meets the tortilla and gets just a little chewy. My kids always fight over the crispiest corners which is why I never skimp on the butter for frying.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers wrap tightly in foil and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to bring back the crispy outside. These are best fresh but will keep for up to two days.
Ingredient Substitutions
No Swiss cheese Use Gruyere provolone or even sharp cheddar. Try smoked turkey instead of ham for a different but equally delicious twist. For gluten free needs use corn tortillas and toast carefully.
Serving Suggestions
These quesadillas make a meal on their own but add a fresh green salad or tangy pickles for some brightness. Honey mustard is a must for dipping but homemade ranch or Dijon cream is fantastic too.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken Cordon Bleu blends Swiss and French flavors typically using chicken ham and Swiss cheese in a rolled breaded cutlet. Wrapping these elements in a tortilla is a playful take on classic comfort food making it easier to eat and sharing that old school flavor with a Tex Mex twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone are excellent alternatives that melt well and offer delicious flavor.
- → How do I get crispy quesadilla edges?
Brushing or cooking the tortillas with a little butter helps achieve a golden, crisp exterior while sealing in the fillings.
- → Is there a low-carb option for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute low-carb tortillas or use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling for a lighter version.
- → Can the chicken filling be prepared ahead?
You can mix the chicken filling up to three days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for quick assembly.
- → What sauces pair well with these quesadillas?
Honey mustard or Dijon cream sauce works wonderfully, adding a tangy balance to the savory flavors.