Crockpot Chicken Cordon Bleu

When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. One dish that perfectly fits the bill is slow cooker chicken cordon Bleu. It takes the classic elegance of chicken cordon Bleu and transforms it into a cozy, fuss-free dinner that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Crockpot chicken cordon Bleu is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do all the work. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, while the ham and cheese melt into a creamy, flavorful filling that tastes like it took far more effort than it actually did.

What’s even better is that this recipe is perfect for cheap dinners that don’t compromise on taste. You don’t need expensive cuts of meat or fancy ingredients — a few staples from your pantry and fridge are all it takes to make this winter favorite. It’s ideal for those nights when you want something comforting but don’t feel like spending hours cooking.

And if you’re craving an easy cordon Bleu dinner that can double as leftovers for lunches or a second meal, this crockpot cordon Bleu is the answer. It’s filling, flavorful, and utterly satisfying — a super easy dinner that will quickly become a regular in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love It

• Hands-off cooking – Once everything is in the crockpot, you can walk away and let the magic happen. No standing over the stove, no constant stirring—just pure convenience.
• Tender, juicy chicken every time – The slow cooker locks in moisture, so your chicken cordon Bleu comes out perfectly tender and packed with flavor.
• Budget-friendly comfort – This recipe is ideal for cheap dinners that still feel indulgent. With simple ingredients like ham, cheese, and chicken, you get a luxurious-tasting meal without stretching your wallet.
• Perfect for winter nights – There’s something about a warm, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth dish that hits the spot during chilly evenings. It’s the ultimate cozy dinner to fight off the cold.
• Super easy dinner for any occasion – Whether it’s a weekday family meal or a relaxed weekend dinner, this crockpot cordon Bleu is always a hit. Plus, it doubles as easy leftovers, making meal planning a breeze.

Ingredient List

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 4 slices of ham
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Notes

• I always use Swiss cheese for its creamy melt—it really makes the cordon Bleu special.
• Don’t skip the ham! It adds that classic salty bite that balances the creamy cheese perfectly.
• For the sauce, I prefer full-fat cream of mushroom soup—it gives the richest, most comforting flavor.
• Dijon mustard is optional but trust me, it adds a subtle tang that elevates the dish.
• Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the meal super easy and fuss-free, plus it cooks evenly in the crockpot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / Slow cooker – The star of the show! I love using my 6-quart slow cooker for even cooking.
• Sharp knife – For slicing chicken and cheese neatly. A good chef’s knife makes prep effortless.
• Cutting board – Keeps everything tidy; I always use a sturdy wooden one.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise sauce ingredients; my favorite set is simple and stackable.
• Tongs – Perfect for handling the chicken without tearing it.
• Mixing bowl – To whisk together the sauce quickly and easily.
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional) – Helps with easier cleanup and keeps cheese from sticking.

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

• Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board.
• Using a sharp knife, slice each breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
• Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, gently pound them with a meat mallet for even cooking.

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2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu

• Place a slice of ham inside each chicken pocket.
• Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
• Fold the chicken over carefully, tucking in the filling as much as possible.

Pro Tip: Use toothpicks to secure the chicken pockets if needed—they help keep the cheese from oozing out while cooking.

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3. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
• Transfer the seared chicken into the crockpot.

Pro Tip: Searing locks in flavor and gives a lovely golden color, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

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4. Make the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, and black pepper.
• Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a silky smooth sauce.

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5. Cook in the Crockpot

• Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the crockpot.
• Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 1.5–2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Pro Tip: Avoid lifting the lid too often; it lets heat escape and can add cooking time.

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6. Finish and Serve

• Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot using tongs.
• Spoon some sauce over the chicken before serving.
• Remove toothpicks if used, and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t overfill the crockpot – Give the chicken some space so it cooks evenly.
• Use fresh ingredients when possible – Fresh ham and cheese give the best flavor, though pre-sliced works fine too.
• Check chicken thickness – Even-sized breasts cook more consistently; pound thicker ones if needed.
• Let it rest – Allow the chicken to sit 5 minutes after cooking; it helps the cheese set slightly.
• Optional sear for flavor – Browning the chicken adds extra flavor, but it’s still delicious if skipped.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Cheese – Try Gruyère or mozzarella instead of Swiss for a different twist.
• Ham – Prosciutto or turkey slices work well if you want a leaner option.
• Sauce – Cream of chicken soup can replace cream of mushroom for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Seasonings – Add a pinch of smoked paprika or thyme to the seasoning mix for a deeper, savory flavor.
• Low-carb option – Serve without sauce or swap milk for unsweetened almond milk to reduce carbs.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving crockpot chicken cordon Bleu with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans—the perfect winter comfort combo!
• Pair it with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the cheese and sauce.
• Serve alongside buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
• Add a side of steamed broccoli or carrots for a simple, healthy touch.
• For a cozy twist, try it over buttered egg noodles—it turns into a comforting, saucy one-dish meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium for 2–3 minutes, checking halfway.
• Reheat in the oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Reheat on the stovetop: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?

Yes! You can bake the chicken cordon Bleu in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes. Just cover with foil to keep it moist.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

You can, but I recommend thawing them first. Frozen chicken may cook unevenly in the slow cooker.

What can I serve with crockpot chicken cordon Bleu?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple salad all pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the chicken in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook. It’s perfect for busy weekdays.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to tuck the cheese inside the chicken pocket and optionally secure with toothpicks. Searing the chicken before slow cooking also helps keep the filling inside.

Can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

Yes! Use unsweetened almond milk in the sauce and skip any sides like mashed potatoes or noodles to keep it low-carb.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!