Cordon Bleu Bites are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness wrapped in a bite-sized package. Inspired by the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, these mini versions are ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, brunches, or elegant appetizers for special occasions. Each bite delivers a rich combination of tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all encased in a golden breadcrumb crust. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they’re the kind of finger food guests can’t stop reaching for. Whether served with a mustard dipping sauce, creamy garlic aioli, or on their own, these bites are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (finely chopped or ground)
- 1 cup finely diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (divided – for mix and coating)
- 2 eggs (for coating)
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Preparation
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped or ground chicken, diced ham, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together. Chill for 20 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls or mini patties. You should get around 18-24 bites depending on size. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 3: Set up a dredging station: in one bowl, place the flour; in a second bowl, whisk the eggs; and in a third bowl, place the remaining breadcrumbs. Roll each bite first in flour, then dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), gently add the bites in batches. Fry for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Step 5: Remove the bites using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Serve warm with dipping sauces such as Dijon mustard, garlic aioli, or a creamy herb dip.
Variations
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw for a quicker version
- Replace Swiss with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor
- Add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra depth
- Make it spicy by adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper
- Swap Dijon mustard for honey mustard in the filling for a sweet-savory combo
Cooking Notes
- Do not overmix the filling, as it can become dense
- If mixture feels too loose, add a little more breadcrumb until it holds together
- Chill mixture before shaping to make handling easier
- Use a small cookie scoop for even-sized bites
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispiness
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with creamy garlic sauce, spicy mustard dip, or ranch dressing
- Pair with a simple green salad for a light meal or lunch
- Place on skewers for party platters or cocktail hour
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or microgreens for presentation
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or baked potatoes for a heartier dish
Tips
- Make a double batch and freeze uncooked bites for later use
- Bake instead of fry at 400°F for 20–25 minutes if preferred
- Air-fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version
- Let bites rest for a few minutes after frying to allow juices to settle
- Always test one bite for seasoning before forming the whole batch
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 18–24 bites
Nutritional Information (per 3 bites, approximate)
Calories: 280
Protein: 18g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sodium: 520mg
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake the bites at 400°F on a parchment-lined tray for 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
Can I make them ahead?
- Absolutely. You can prep and freeze them raw, then fry or bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What cheese works best if I don’t have Swiss?
- Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone are great alternatives that melt well and pair nicely with ham and chicken.
Can I make them gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a 1:1 gluten-free flour for dredging.
Do I need to use cream cheese?
- Cream cheese helps bind the mixture and adds a creamy texture, but you can omit it or substitute with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
Cordon Bleu Bites bring all the flavors of a traditional chicken cordon bleu into a snackable, irresistible appetizer format. With tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese packed into crispy little bites, they’re ideal for parties, family gatherings, or meal prep snacks. You can fry, bake, or air-fry them and still end up with a delicious result. Whether served with your favorite dip or eaten straight from the tray, these bites are a crowd-pleasing favorite that disappear in minutes. With simple ingredients and flexible cooking options, Cordon Bleu Bites are a must-try recipe that adds gourmet flair to any event without much fuss.