Chicken Cordon Bleu Panini

INGREDIENTS

• 4 ounces cream cheese, light or regular, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or sour cream
• 4 slices French bread (see note)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (see note)
• 4-6 thinly sliced deli ham
• Salt and pepper or garlic/herb seasoning – (see note)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, Dijon mustard and mayo (or sour cream) until smooth.
2. For each sandwich: spread sauce on both sides of the bread (I spread a light coating on the outside of the bread and a more generous dollop on the inside of both pieces). Sprinkle the outside of each piece of bread with a bit of salt and pepper or a garlic/herb seasoning blend and place the pieces of bread seasoning side down.
3. Continue layering one slice of bread with a slice of Swiss cheese, cooked chicken, a couple slices of deli ham, and a final slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the other slice of bread (seasonings on the outside).
4. Cook the sandwich on a preheated panini press or on a hot griddle or skillet on the stove until golden and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet or griddle, flip as needed to cook through – you can also weigh the sandwich down with a heavy pan or skillet for a panini-like effect. Serve warm.