Description
Looking for a dish that feels fancy but is easy to make? Chicken Cordon Bleu is the answer. This timeless recipe combines crispy breaded chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese for a meal that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of deli ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through.
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness (about ¼ inch) using a meat mallet.
- Fill the Chicken:
- Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Lay one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on each piece of chicken.
- Roll the chicken tightly around the filling, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika in a third bowl.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure an even coating.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Prepare the Optional Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and salt. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls.
- Drizzle the cream sauce over the top or serve it on the side. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Cheese Alternatives: Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone can replace Swiss cheese.
- Cooking Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French-inspired