Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless classic that captures the essence of comfort food with its delightful combination of crispy breading, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese. This dish has a special place in my heart, as it’s often a go-to for family gatherings and weekend dinners. With its elegant presentation and rich flavors, it’s the perfect way to impress loved ones while keeping the cooking process straightforward. So, whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Chicken Cordon Bleu!
Why you’ll love this dish
Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those recipes that feels ultra-indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make at home. Not only does it elevate a standard chicken breast, but it also brings a party of flavors to the table without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough for special occasions, this is the recipe for you. Kids will love the gooey cheese and savory ham, making it a fantastic family-friendly meal everyone can agree on.
“This Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a game-changer! It’s so crispy and packed with flavor. My family can’t get enough!” — Elizabeth R.
The cooking process explained
Preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu is an art, but don’t worry; it’s a simple one! First, you’ll pound the chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and even cooking. Then comes the heavenly layering of ham and Swiss cheese, creating a pocket of flavor that is hard to resist. Once rolled and breaded, a quick sear followed by baking in the oven ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Finally, you’ll whip up a creamy sauce that elevates this dish to gourmet status!
What you’ll need
Gathering these key ingredients will set you on the path to Chicken Cordon Bleu perfection:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (plus 2 tbsp for the sauce)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter (2 for cooking, 2 for the sauce)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Pro tip: Consider using thicker slices of ham and cheese for a more robust flavor, or swap in your favorite cheese varieties for a unique twist!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s take this process one step at a time:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for what’s to come.
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Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to about ¼ inch thickness. This not only tenderizes them but also helps them cook evenly. Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each, then roll them tightly and secure with toothpicks.
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Bread the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, coating thoroughly. Finally, roll them in breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch.
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Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken roll for 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
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Bake: Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, then stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan. Cook until thick and creamy, seasoning to taste.
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Serve: Remove toothpicks from the chicken, slice into rounds, and drizzle with the delicious cream sauce. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Best ways to enjoy it
Plating Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a delightful experience! Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish. You could also add a splash of lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, as this will help to maintain the crispiness. It’s essential to ensure that any chicken entrails reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Pound evenly: For the best results, pound the chicken evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly without drying out.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the chicken rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bread and cook them on the day you plan to serve.
- Use a food thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, a food thermometer can be your best friend. Aim for that perfect 165°F internal temperature.
Creative twists
Feel like getting a bit adventurous? Here are some creative twists on the classic:
- Italian Cordon Bleu: Swap out the ham for prosciutto and use mozzarella instead of Swiss for an Italian flair.
- Vegetable Delight: Add spinach or roasted red peppers inside for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for those who love a bit of heat.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu?
The entire process, including prep and cooking time, should take around 45-50 minutes.
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the chicken rolls a day before. Just cook them fresh on the day you plan to serve.
Is it safe to freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Now that you’ve got all the insights for making Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s time to don your apron and get cooking! Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to about ¼ inch thickness, then lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in the seasoned flour, dip into beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken rolls for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese. Cook until thick and creamy, seasoning to taste.
- Remove toothpicks from chicken, slice and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
