
There’s a certain amount of chaos that’s okay in life. It’s comforting even — at least to me. A pile of papers, organized in a way where I know where everything is. A packed schedule that leaves little room for anything. The natural chaos that comes with a busy but relaxed summer.
But too much chaos? That completely saps all the creativity and joy out of life. Not good.
That’s where I was earlier today. Drowning in too much chaos, my office overrun with papers, piles, boxes and stuff. I couldn’t think straight. Heck, I could barely move through the space.
So I tossed my to-do list aside and dove into making it better. Yes, I cleaned. After a few hours, my desk was straightened and organized. There was more space, less stuff and a feeling that everything was a little better. And when it was done, complete with the lamp that I recently rehabbed, it was like a giant space in my brain came totally unblocked.
It feels good to be able to think again.
Chaos is also a good way to describe those afternoons when dinnertime approaches without a plan. You know what I am talking about: those times when you suddenly realize that you didn’t defrost anything and the pantry is sadly devoid of inspiration. Even though you eventually figure it out, dinner inevitably lacks that cohesion that comes with a well-planned meal. It’s flat and boring.
I hate that.
But sometimes when you realize that you have no plan, you can whip up a quick tried and true recipe and totally save the night. This recipe? It’s one of those savior recipes. And since it’s ready in about 15 minutes, it’s really perfect for any busy night.

Thin-cut chicken breasts (a total dinner time saver!) are seasoned well with salt and pepper. Then they are quickly grilled to juicy perfection — it only takes a few minutes per side. Finally, they are topped with slices of ham and cheese. Dish them onto rolls and enjoy.
No, these aren’t your typical, breaded, rolled up chicken cordon bleu. Those are fantastic, but time consuming to make. But this version is a little healthier (no breading and grilled!) and a lot faster. Better yet, with the salty ham and creamy Swiss cheese on the seasoned breasts, it’s satisfying and flavorful.
Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwiches

Ingredients
- 1 lb thin-sliced chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 sandwich rolls
Instructions
- Heat your grill up – if using a gas grill, you want it to be heated to its medium setting. Season the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Top each with one slice of ham and cheese. Cover the grill and cook for about a minute, until the cheese is melted.
- Place each chicken breast on a roll. Serve – and enjoy.
Notes
If desired, serve with mustard.
Chicken Cordon Bleu: With A Twist – sixtimemommy.com
Friday 3rd of April 2015
[…] 5. Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwiches – Sarah’s Cucina Bella […]
Val from PA
Wednesday 24th of July 2013
Made these last night and they were wonderful! So simple yet so good! Used frozen chicken breasts that were marinated in olive oil and sea salt. Topped them with the ham and swiss cheese, and also mixed up a little sauce of mayo, apricot preserves and Sriracha. Oh they were soooo good!!! Served with some homemade french fries and apple coleslaw, it was one of the best dinners I've had in a while!
Kate
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
I understand chaos all too well! I think you're describing my life right now
Sarah W. Caron
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
Ha! Must be a mom thing, right?
patsyk
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
What a great meal idea! I sometimes forget to go back to favorite recipes on nights like that... thanks for the reminder!
Sarah W. Caron
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
Sometimes on nights like that, it's as if I forget how to cook. Or put a meal together. Or do anything.
Kirsten@FarmFreshFeasts
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
Sarah, My family loves chicken cordon bleu with the thin chicken and sliced deli ham and cheese--what a terrific idea to grill them and make sandwiches. Thanks!
Sarah W. Caron
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
Thank you!!