Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese for a comforting, rich flavor. This Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu takes all those delicious elements and makes it easy by using a slow cooker! With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this dish is perfect for busy nights or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce adds extra flavor, and the chicken comes out juicy and tender every time!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Classic Flavor: This recipe delivers the comforting flavors of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu with a creamy twist.
• Easy to Make: Just layer, pour, and let the slow cooker do the work—no need for breading or frying!
• Family Favorite: With tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory ham, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Busy Nights: Minimal prep and set-it-and-forget-it cooking make it ideal for weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère cheese for extra flavor)
• 4-8 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 1 (10.5 oz / 300g) can cream of chicken soup
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (100g / 0.22 lb) breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Layer in Slow Cooker

1. Season the Chicken:
   Season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker. Top each chicken breast with 1-2 slices of ham and then a slice of Swiss cheese.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Pour Over Chicken:
   Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ham, and cheese, making sure each piece is coated.

Step 3: Add the Breadcrumb Topping

1. Mix the Breadcrumbs and Butter:
   In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle Over the Chicken:
   Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the chicken and sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Cook on Low:
   Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs golden.
2. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with your choice of side.

Notes

• For a Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the milk to ½ cup or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Use Pre-Cooked Ham: Deli ham works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also use leftover holiday ham for added flavor.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• No Cream of Chicken Soup? Substitute with homemade cream sauce by mixing 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of flour, and a bit of salt and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just check the cooking time, as thighs may cook a little faster.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?
No, there’s no need to brown the chicken. The slow cooker will cook the chicken until tender without needing to pre-brown it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just start the slow cooker when you’re ready.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I keep the breadcrumbs crispy?
If you prefer extra-crispy breadcrumbs, toast them in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker, or place the slow cooker insert under the broiler for a few minutes if it’s oven-safe.

Tips and Notes

• My Tip: For extra creaminess, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce.
• Pro Trick: For added flavor, use smoked ham or add a touch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve this dish with a side of roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.

Variations

• Cheddar Chicken Cordon Bleu: Use cheddar cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Chicken Cordon Bleu: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Herbed Chicken Cordon Bleu: Mix some Italian herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the sauce for added flavor.
• Low-Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu: Skip the breadcrumbs and cook the chicken with just the sauce, ham, and cheese.
• Turkey Cordon Bleu: Use turkey breast cutlets in place of chicken for a holiday-inspired twist.