Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Golden, crispy on the outside, with a gooey, savory center, Chicken Cordon Bleu is the kind of impressive main course that’s far simpler than it looks, yet always delivers that wow factor for family dinners or special occasions. This classic French-American dish features tender chicken breasts enveloping luscious ham and melty Swiss cheese, all hugged by a perfect breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re polishing off your weeknight menu or planning a dinner party, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a surefire way to make everyone at the table feel pampered and delighted.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Cordon Bleu is the harmony created by just a handful of everyday ingredients, each one playing an important role. From juicy chicken to the crispy breadcrumb coating, this lineup is easy to find and wonderful to work with!
- Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless if you want perfectly shaped rolls that cook evenly and stay tender.
- Swiss cheese: This creamy, meltable cheese gives the iconic cheesy center—look for slices that fit easily inside each chicken breast.
- Cooked ham: Choose a mild, thinly sliced ham; it adds just the right touch of saltiness and wonderful contrast to the cheese.
- All-purpose flour: Flour gives the first layer of breading, helping everything stick and crisp up beautifully.
- Salt: A little seasoning in the flour mixture goes a long way in boosting overall flavor.
- Black pepper: Just enough to enhance the subtle flavors of both the chicken and ham.
- Eggs (beaten): These act as the “glue” for the breadcrumbs and keep the coating golden and crunchy.
- Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned): The final layer for that classic crispy crust; seasoned ones will add extra flavor if you like.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Either adds richness and helps brown the crust during the skillet step; pick your favorite!
- Toothpicks: These kitchen heroes help secure your lovely chicken rolls until they’re baked to perfection (just don’t forget to remove them before serving!).
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu
Step 1: Pound and Flatten the Chicken
Lay each chicken breast between two plastic wrap sheets, then gently pound them out to about 1/4-inch thickness. This step might feel a bit therapeutic! The even thickness makes them ideal for rolling and ensures every bite of Chicken Cordon Bleu is as tender as the last.
Step 2: Layer on the Good Stuff
Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each pounded chicken breast. Make sure they fit neatly within the borders for easy rolling. The ham insulates the cheese, keeping it delightfully melty as the Chicken Cordon Bleu cooks.
Step 3: Roll and Secure
Starting from one end, roll the chicken up tightly, tucking in the sides so the glorious fillings stay put. Use toothpicks to securely hold each Chicken Cordon Bleu roll together. A tight roll is key to locking in all that gooey goodness!
Step 4: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow dishes: one for flour mixed with salt and pepper, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs. This classic breading trio gives you that irresistible crunch so many people love in Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Step 5: Bread the Rolls
Dredge each roll first in flour, making sure all surfaces are coated. Next, dip into the eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat generously with breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres. This triple-layer breading locks in moisture and adds so much texture.
Step 6: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your chicken rolls and brown them on all sides—about 3 to 4 minutes is all you need. This quick sauté gives each Chicken Cordon Bleu its beautiful golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the rolls to a baking dish and pop them into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Let them cool slightly and remember to remove every toothpick before serving!
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side provides a bright, zesty contrast that cuts through the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu with style.
Side Dishes
Chicken Cordon Bleu loves classic sides like creamy Dijon sauce, buttery mashed potatoes, or simple roasted veggies. Try pairing it with a lightly dressed green salad or even seasonal asparagus for a fresh, balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice each Chicken Cordon Bleu roll on the diagonal for beautiful, restaurant-worthy spirals. Drizzle with sauce or serve over a bed of baby greens for something extra special—these little touches turn a classic dish into your own signature dinner party centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Chicken Cordon Bleu holds up surprisingly well, keeping its flavor and structure for next-day lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each cooled Chicken Cordon Bleu individually in plastic wrap and then foil, sealing tightly. They’ll keep for up to two months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Chicken Cordon Bleu is in a 350°F (175°C) oven, uncovered, until warmed through—about 15 minutes. This keeps that crust crispy while ensuring the cheese inside gets perfectly melty once more.
FAQs
Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble and bread the chicken rolls earlier in the day, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to brown and bake. This makes entertaining or meal prepping a breeze.
What’s the best sauce to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A creamy Dijon mustard sauce is classic, but you can also go with a light cheese sauce or even a herby pan gravy. These sauces add richness and pull the whole dish together in delightful harmony.
Can I use different cheeses or meats?
Definitely. While Swiss and ham are traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, feel free to use Gruyere, provolone, or even a smoked turkey—this dish welcomes your personal spin without missing a beat.
How do I stop the cheese from leaking out?
Tucking in the sides tightly while rolling and securing with toothpicks helps a lot. You can also freeze the assembled rolls for 10 minutes before breading, which gives the cheese a better chance of staying inside.
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. The results are just as crispy and satisfying for anyone avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and just a touch fancy, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a must-try. Grab your supplies, gather your loved ones around, and savor one of the most delightful stuffed chicken dinners out there—you’ll be glad you did!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the classic French-American dish with this easy and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. Tender chicken breasts filled with Swiss cheese and ham, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices cooked ham
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound Chicken: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Fill and Roll: Place ham and Swiss cheese on each breast. Roll up tightly, tucking in sides, and secure with toothpicks.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Brown Chicken: Brown chicken in a skillet with olive oil or butter. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until cooked through. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a creamy Dijon sauce or garlic mashed potatoes for a classic pairing.
- For a lighter version, bake directly in the oven until golden and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast roll
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 185 mg
