Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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:
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls and transfer them to serving plates. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 40g