If you have ever wanted to impress with a dish that balances elegance and comforting flavors, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, then baked to a golden perfection, bring together the best of textures and tastes in every bite. This classic dish manages to feel fancy without any fuss, making it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions alike. Once you try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals to share with loved ones!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor that come together in perfect harmony. From the juicy chicken to the sharp Swiss cheese and classic ham, each component adds its own unique touch to the dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides the tender, juicy canvas for the filling and a protein-packed base.
- Deli ham slices: Adds a subtle smoky saltiness that perfectly complements the cheese.
- Swiss cheese slices: Melts beautifully to create a rich, creamy center.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and creates a light crust.
- Large eggs (beaten): Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy exterior.
- Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts the soft filling.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that brightens every bite.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the mustard layer creamy and helps the roll stay moist.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps achieve that crispy, golden finish.
- Cooking spray or oil: For greasing the baking sheet to prevent sticking and promote browning.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken
Start by butterflying each chicken breast carefully, splitting them horizontally without cutting all the way through, so you can open them like a book. Then, place each breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound gently until they are about 1/4-inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier, giving you that perfect tender bite throughout.
Step 2: Season and Spread the Flavor Base
Season both sides of each pounded chicken breast with salt and pepper. Next, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard combined with mayonnaise on one side of the chicken. This tangy and creamy base sets the stage, balancing the ham and cheese with just the right zing and moisture to keep everything deliciously cohesive.
Step 3: Add the Ham and Cheese
Place one slice of deli ham and one slice of Swiss cheese directly on top of the mustard-mayo spread. This pairing creates the classic signature flavor for your Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe, combining smoky, savory, and creamy elements that melt together as the chicken cooks.
Step 4: Roll and Secure the Chicken Bundles
Carefully roll the chicken breasts tightly around the ham and cheese filling. To keep those bundles intact, secure each one firmly with toothpicks. The rolls should be snug to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking and to achieve that lovely shape that is so inviting on the plate.
Step 5: Coat the Rolls for a Crispy Finish
Next, dredge each chicken roll in flour, giving it a light dusting to help the egg wash stick better. Then dip the rolls into the beaten eggs, coating them evenly. Finally, roll them in breadcrumbs—panko works best for a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your prepared chicken rolls onto a baking sheet that has been lightly greased or lined with parchment paper. Drizzle melted butter over the top or spray lightly with cooking oil, which assists in browning the crust perfectly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, until the outside is golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). Let them rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a splash of color and a subtle freshness that brightens the rich flavors in the Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. For an extra touch, a lemon wedge on the side can provide a delightful zesty contrast when squeezed over each portion.
Side Dishes
Serving this dish alongside light and complementary sides keeps the meal balanced. Think buttery mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted asparagus. These sides absorb the rich flavors while adding pleasant textures and freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken rolls into pinwheels before plating, displaying beautiful spirals of ham and cheese. Or serve them whole on a bed of creamy Dijon sauce or a white wine reduction, elevating your presentation and flavor experience. The Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is just versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether casual or elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Cordon Bleu leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within 3 days for the best taste and texture. This makes it a convenient option for meals during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared, unbaked chicken rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. This is perfect when preparing meals ahead of time.
Reheating
To retain the crispy coating, reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breadcrumb crust soggy, reducing the delightful texture contrast of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu, Gruyère or mozzarella can be excellent alternatives that melt well and add distinct flavors. Experiment to find your favorite twist.
Is it possible to pan-fry instead of baking?
Yes, pan-frying is an option for a crispier crust. Use medium heat and cook each side until golden brown, then finish in the oven to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the outside.
How do I prevent the chicken from falling apart during cooking?
Ensuring the chicken is pounded evenly and rolling it tightly before securing with toothpicks are key steps. Don’t skip the flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating, as it also helps keep everything together.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, and ensure your deli ham and other ingredients are gluten-free certified. This simple swap won’t compromise the deliciousness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe.
What’s the best way to serve leftover sauce?
A creamy Dijon mustard sauce or a white wine reduction complements leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu beautifully and can be drizzled over both reheated leftovers or freshly baked servings to enhance moisture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about making this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe at home—it’s a perfect blend of sophistication and homestyle comfort. The golden crust, the savory filling, and the tender chicken create such a satisfying meal that you will want to make it again and again. Trust me, once you bring this classic dish to your table, it will quickly become a cherished favorite for both everyday dinners and special celebrations.
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Description
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. Baked to golden perfection, this elegant yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying main course that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with a crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Breading and Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Flavor and Grease
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Butterfly and Pound Chicken: Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, then gently pound between two sheets of plastic wrap to an even thickness of 1/4 inch for uniform cooking.
- Season and Spread Sauce: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard and mayonnaise on one side of each breast to add flavor and moisture.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Place one slice of deli ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on top of the mustard-smeared side of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for a tasty filling.
- Roll and Secure: Tightly roll up each chicken breast around the filling and secure with toothpicks to hold the shape during cooking.
- Breading Process: Dredge each chicken roll first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with melted butter or lightly spray with oil to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute before removing toothpicks and serving.
Notes
- Prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time when ready to cook.
- For added flavor, serve with a creamy Dijon sauce or a light white wine reduction.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee food safety.
