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+ servings
Benjamin

Quick Chicken Cordon Bleu: Easy Gourmet at Home

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!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: French-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. 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:
  1. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through.
  2. Pound the chicken to an even thickness (about ¼ inch) using a meat mallet.
Fill the Chicken:
  1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
  2. Lay one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on each piece of chicken.
  3. Roll the chicken tightly around the filling, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
Set Up the Breading Station:
  1. 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:
  1. 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:
  1. Place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Prepare the Optional Sauce:
  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously, until the sauce thickens.
  3. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and salt. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
Serve and Garnish:
  1. Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls.
  2. 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.

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