Chicken Cordon Bleu

Introduction

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic, indulgent dish that combines juicy chicken breast, savory ham, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown breading. This French-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser and makes for an impressive main course. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, Chicken Cordon Bleu is sure to satisfy with its combination of flavors and textures.

I first made this dish when I wanted to treat my family to something a little more special, and it was an instant hit. The crispy coating gives way to the tender chicken and the rich, gooey cheese, while the ham adds just the right amount of saltiness. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel like they’re dining at a restaurant, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

The versatility of Chicken Cordon Bleu is another great feature. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables, depending on your mood or the occasion. And for those looking to add a little extra flavor, a drizzle of creamy mustard sauce or a squeeze of lemon elevates the dish even further. This is one recipe that never goes out of style and is perfect for creating a memorable meal!

Perfect for:

• Special occasions and dinner parties
• Family dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Holiday meals
• Chicken and cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu

Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite:

• Tender Chicken: The chicken is juicy and tender, creating the perfect base for the savory filling.
• Cheese and Ham: The melted Swiss cheese and flavorful ham add a rich, savory layer to each bite.
• Crispy Breading: The breadcrumbs create a crunchy, golden exterior that perfectly complements the tender inside.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks elegant and sophisticated, making it ideal for special occasions or a show-stopping meal.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of chicken, ham, and cheese provides a rich, hearty meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices deli ham
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean and tender base for the dish.
• Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese has a smooth, mild flavor that melts beautifully and complements the ham perfectly.
• Ham: Deli ham adds a savory, salty element that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and cheese.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating that enhances the texture of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Flatten the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.
3. Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Lay one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese onto each chicken breast. Carefully roll up the chicken, securing the ham and cheese inside. Use toothpicks to secure the rolls if necessary.

Coat the Chicken:

4. Prepare the Coatings: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another, place the beaten eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, coating it evenly. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.

Cook the Chicken:

6. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken rolls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown.
7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted.

Serve:

8. Serve: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls and transfer them to serving plates. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With a Side Salad: Pair the chicken with a simple green salad, like a Caesar or mixed greens salad, for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a comforting side dish.
• With Steamed Vegetables: Add steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a balanced meal.
• With Rice: Serve the chicken with a side of rice, such as garlic butter rice or wild rice, to soak up the flavorful juices.
• With Pasta: Pair the chicken with pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, for an Italian-inspired meal.

Additional Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe is perfect every time:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Flatten the chicken evenly to ensure it cooks at the same rate, preventing any dry spots.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken with ham and cheese, as this could make it difficult to roll up and cook evenly.
• Use Toothpicks for Security: If you’re worried about the chicken unrolling, toothpicks can help hold it together while baking.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken rolls in advance, bread them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can save time when you’re ready to bake.
• Serve with Sauce: For extra flavor, serve the chicken with a creamy mustard sauce or béchamel sauce.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Turkey Cordon Bleu: Swap the chicken for turkey breast and use turkey ham for a lighter variation.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce: Serve the chicken with a Dijon mustard cream sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Provolone: Substitute Swiss cheese with provolone for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Vegetarian Cordon Bleu: Use slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms in place of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Chicken Cordon Bleu: Add some chili flakes or spicy mustard to the ham or cheese for a spicy twist.
• Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: Skip the frying and bake the chicken rolls directly in the oven for a healthier version.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Mozzarella: Swap the Swiss cheese for mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy interior.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Bacon: Add crispy bacon inside the chicken for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto on the chicken before adding the ham and cheese for a fresh, herby twist.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Cordon Bleu: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Chicken Cordon Bleu before cooking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

Special Equipment for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: For flattening the chicken evenly.
• Shallow Dishes for Coating: Use shallow dishes for the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to make the breading process easier.
• Ovenproof Skillet: A large ovenproof skillet is ideal for searing and baking the chicken in one pan.
• Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Cordon Bleu

1. Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
2. Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight before baking.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
4. What should the internal temperature of the chicken be?
   The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
   Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before cooking. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic and satisfying dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner. With tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy coating, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will impress every time. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or a weeknight meal, Chicken Cordon Bleu is sure to be a favorite.

This recipe is as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat, making it a great option for everything from formal gatherings to casual family nights. Whether you’re treating your loved ones or enjoying it yourself, Chicken Cordon Bleu will bring delicious flavor to the table.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Cordon Bleu turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!