These Chicken Cordon Bleu Hand Pies bring together the classic flavors of crispy golden pastry, tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. The combination of Dijon mustard and aromatic seasonings enhances every bite, making these savory pockets irresistible.
Whether served as a quick dinner, a grab-and-go lunch, or an appetizer for a gathering, these hand pies are sure to impress. The perfectly crisped pastry, combined with the creamy, cheesy filling, makes them an easy yet elegant dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut each into 4 equal squares.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, diced ham, Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each pastry square.
- Fold the other half over to create a rectangle and seal the edges with a fork.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water, then brush over the top of each hand pie.
- Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Cordon Bleu Hand Pies: A Perfect Fusion of Flavors
History & Origin of Chicken Cordon Bleu
The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu trace back to Switzerland, where it was inspired by schnitzel, a breaded meat cutlet. The term Cordon Bleu, meaning “Blue Ribbon” in French, signifies excellence and high-quality cooking. Traditionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu consists of flattened chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, breaded, and fried. Over time, variations emerged, including baking instead of frying and incorporating different cheeses and meats.
By transforming the original dish into hand pies, this recipe simplifies the preparation while keeping the classic flavors intact, making it perfect for a quick meal or on-the-go snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Crispy and flaky – The golden puff pastry gives a light, buttery crunch.
✅ Perfectly cheesy – Melty Swiss cheese creates a creamy, rich filling.
✅ Savory & smoky – The ham adds a delicious salty depth.
✅ Quick & easy – Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal effort.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Make ahead and store for a quick meal or snack.
The Ingredients That Make the Magic
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these Chicken Cordon Bleu Hand Pies irresistibly delicious.
Key Ingredients & Their Purpose:
- Puff Pastry – The buttery, flaky base that gives the pies their crispy texture.
- Chicken – Pre-cooked and shredded, offering a tender, protein-packed filling.
- Ham – Adds a savory, slightly salty contrast to the mild chicken.
- Swiss Cheese – The traditional choice, providing a creamy, nutty flavor when melted.
- Dijon Mustard – Brings a tangy depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Garlic & Onion Powder – Boosts the savory flavor of the filling.
- Parsley – Adds freshness and a mild herbal note.
- Egg Wash – Ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust when baked.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Hand Pies
🔹 Use high-quality puff pastry – This ensures flaky, crispy layers after baking.
🔹 Pre-cook and cool the chicken – This prevents excess moisture in the pastry.
🔹 Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can cause the pastry to burst open.
🔹 Seal the edges well – Use a fork or crimping tool to secure the edges.
🔹 Egg wash for a golden shine – Brushing beaten egg over the pies gives them a beautiful crispy, golden-brown finish.
🔹 Let them rest before serving – This allows the filling to set and prevents burning your mouth!
Variations & Customizations
Make these hand pies your own with these creative twists:
🥓 Bacon Cordon Bleu – Swap ham for crispy bacon bits for a smokier flavor.
🧀 Cheese Lover’s Twist – Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different cheese experience.
🌿 Herb-Infused Pastry – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the filling.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Mix in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
🥦 Vegetable Boost – Add spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for more texture and nutrition.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Hand Pies
These flaky, cheesy hand pies can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
🍽️ As a main meal – Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
🥂 With a drink pairing – Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon.
🥣 With a dipping sauce – Try Dijon mustard, honey mustard, creamy garlic aioli, or ranch for an extra burst of flavor.
🥪 On-the-go snack – Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or road trips.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Make Ahead & Storage
🧊 Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
❄️ Freezer: Wrap each hand pie in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
🔥 Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep them crispy.
⚡ Air Fryer: Heat at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
🔄 Microwave: Heat for 30-40 seconds, but note the pastry may soften.
Fun Fact About Chicken Cordon Bleu
💡 Did you know? The first known mention of Cordon Bleu in cooking was in 1949 in a Swiss cookbook. Despite its French-sounding name, the dish actually originated in Switzerland, taking inspiration from breaded schnitzels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these hand pies without puff pastry?
Yes! You can use pie dough, crescent roll dough, or even pizza dough as a substitute.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! This recipe is already baked, making it lighter and less greasy than traditional deep-fried Cordon Bleu.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Swiss cheese is classic, but you can also use mozzarella, provolone, gouda, or sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free puff pastry or gluten-free pie crust as an alternative.
5. How do I keep the filling from making the pastry soggy?
Ensure the filling is not too wet by properly draining any liquid from the chicken or ham before mixing.
What Makes These Hand Pies Special?
✅ Golden, crispy pastry – Buttery and flaky, the puff pastry provides a delightful crunch.
✅ Rich, cheesy filling – Swiss cheese melts perfectly into the shredded chicken and ham.
✅ Easy to make – Simple steps, minimal prep, and ready in under 40 minutes!
✅ Kid-friendly & meal-prep friendly – Make ahead, freeze, and enjoy anytime!
✅ Versatile & customizable – Add different cheeses, seasonings, or even veggies.
Conclusion
These Chicken Cordon Bleu Hand Pies take the classic flavors of a gourmet dish and wrap them into a convenient, crispy, and mouthwatering pastry pocket. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress. Plus, with the endless variations and make-ahead options, this recipe is a keeper for busy kitchens.