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
Scale
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.
