Chicken Cordon Bleu

Bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with this classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. This dish features crispy, golden-baked chicken breasts rolled with savory chicken chicken ham and melty Swiss cheese, finished with a luscious Dijon-Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or elegant entertaining, this comforting dish is timeless, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of chicken, cheese, and the creamy sauce delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe fits any occasion perfectly.
• Perfectly Crispy: The breadcrumb coating creates a delightful crunch that complements the juicy chicken inside.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it an ideal family meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: This tool ensures even thickness for the chicken breasts, allowing for consistent cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken rolls to achieve that desirable golden crust before baking.
• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish helps evenly cook your Chicken Cordon Bleu while retaining moisture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of chicken chicken ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Pound chicken breasts to ¼ inch thickness using a meat mallet. Layer each breast with a slice of chicken chicken ham and Swiss cheese. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Mix flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each rolled chicken piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken roll for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the seared rolls to a baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Prepare Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened and creamy; season to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Remove toothpicks from the baked rolls. Slice into rounds and drizzle generously with cream sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to delight your family or guests. Whether you prefer a casual meal or a more formal presentation, here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Elegant Plating

• Arrange slices of Chicken Cordon Bleu on a large platter, drizzling the Dijon-Parmesan cream sauce artistically over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Simple Side Salad

• Pair the dish with a crisp side salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, which can soak up the delicious cream sauce. Add garlic or herbs for an extra flavor boost.

Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

• Include roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts on the side. Their natural sweetness complements the savory chicken.

Rice Pilaf

• A light rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a satisfying base that pairs well with the creamy sauce and chicken flavors.

Gourmet Bread Rolls

• Offer warm bread rolls or baguette slices to help enjoy every last drop of the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

Making perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out flawless every time.

• Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound each chicken breast evenly for uniform cooking and easy rolling.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh Swiss cheese and quality chicken ham for better flavor and texture.
• Secure Properly: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls tightly so they hold their shape during cooking.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the chicken before baking adds depth of flavor and helps create a crispy exterior.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Cordon Bleu can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this classic dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add freshness and crunch.

2. Cauliflower Gratin
   Creamy cauliflower baked until golden offers a comforting, cheesy contrast.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing adds brightness.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and pair beautifully with savory dishes.

5. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli is simple yet nutritious, adding vibrant color to your plate.

6. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs brings a Mediterranean flair to your meal.

7. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary or thyme offer delightful texture alongside the chicken.

8. Classic Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds tanginess and contrasts nicely with the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Cordon Bleu can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly pound the chicken: Failing to pound the chicken breasts evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each piece is at ¼ inch thickness for consistent results.
• Boldly skip seasoning: Neglecting to season your flour and breadcrumbs will result in bland chicken. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously at every stage of preparation.
• Boldly rush the searing: Not allowing enough time for searing can prevent a crispy texture. Sear each roll until golden brown for the best crunch.
• Boldly overcrowd the baking dish: Placing too many rolls in one dish can steam them instead of baking. Use a large enough dish or bake in batches to get that perfect crispiness.
• Boldly ignore internal temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Cordon Bleu.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish consisting of chicken breasts rolled with ham and cheese, breaded and baked until golden brown.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella or provolone for different flavors.

How do I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

You can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them before baking. Just add extra time when baking from cold.

What should I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Pair it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is Chicken Cordon Bleu suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it great for meal prep or family dinners.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its crispy exterior and savory filling make it an appealing choice for both family meals and elegant gatherings. Feel free to customize your recipe by trying different cheeses or adjusting seasonings. Give this delightful dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Chicken Cordon Bleu

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that elevates everyday dinners to gourmet experiences. This classic recipe features tender chicken breasts rolled with savory chicken ham and melty Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Finished off with a creamy Dijon-Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or elegant entertaining. Enjoy the satisfaction of preparing this comforting meal that impresses both kids and adults alike!

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of chicken ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound each chicken breast to about ¼ inch thickness. Layer with a slice of chicken ham and Swiss cheese, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
3. Dredge each roll in flour mixed with salt and pepper, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each roll until golden brown (2–3 minutes per side).
5. Transfer the rolls to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. For the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan until thickened.
7. Remove toothpicks from rolls, slice into rounds, drizzle with cream sauce, and garnish with parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: French-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (200g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg