Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish featuring tender chicken breast stuffed with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. The name “Cordon Bleu,” which translates to “Blue Ribbon” in French, represents high-quality cuisine, and this dish lives up to its name with rich flavors, a delicate texture, and a satisfyingly crispy crust. It’s a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even dinner parties. Below is a comprehensive guide to making Chicken Cordon Bleu, complete with tips and variations to help you master this delicious recipe.

The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu are somewhat disputed, but it is widely believed to have been inspired by a Swiss dish involving schnitzel stuffed with cheese and ham. This recipe builds on that tradition, combining the crunch of breaded chicken with the creamy, melted goodness of cheese and ham. The key to a great Chicken Cordon Bleu lies in selecting quality ingredients, paying attention to technique, and preparing it with care. Let’s dive into the details of creating this dish at home.

Preparation Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality cheese and ham make a noticeable difference. Swiss or Gruyère cheese works well because it melts smoothly.
2. Pound the Chicken Evenly: Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breast until it’s even and about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to roll.
3. Use Toothpicks to Secure Rolls: To keep the filling in place, insert toothpicks after rolling. Remember to remove them before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface, place a chicken breast on top, and cover it with another piece of plastic wrap.
2. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness. Repeat for all chicken breasts.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling

1. Place a slice of ham on each pounded chicken breast, followed by a slice of cheese on top of the ham.
2. Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from the narrower end, to fully encase the ham and cheese.
3. Secure each roll with toothpicks to hold the shape.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese.
2. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, coating it lightly, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Place the breaded chicken rolls on a plate and allow them to sit for 5-10 minutes to help the breading adhere.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of oil.
3. Sear each chicken roll until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps lock in the juices and adds a beautiful crust.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Dijon Sauce (Optional)

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking, followed by the heavy cream.
5. Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the sauce until thickened, about 5 minutes. Serve warm over the cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Sauce: Spoon the creamy Dijon sauce over the chicken rolls for added flavor and moisture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigerating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Unbaked Chicken Cordon Bleu can be frozen after breading. Place on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
3. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Variations

1. Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu: Instead of frying and baking, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the breaded chicken rolls for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Spinach and Cheese: Add a layer of fresh spinach or basil for added color and flavor.
3. Use Different Cheeses: Substitute Swiss with mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a unique twist.
4. Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly version, skip the breadcrumbs and instead use almond flour or crushed pork rinds as the breading.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish in advance?
   • Yes! Bread the chicken, then refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to cook. You can prepare it up to one day ahead.
2. What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
   • Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone cheese work well in this recipe. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
   • Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour in the breading process.

Tips for Success

1. Keep the Rolls Tight: Rolling the chicken tightly prevents the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Serve Immediately: Chicken Cordon Bleu is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for the ultimate cheesy, crispy experience.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation can create a meal that’s satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite. With its deliciously crisp crust, savory ham and cheese filling, and optional creamy Dijon sauce, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless recipe that elevates any meal with a touch of elegance and comfort.

Yield: 4

Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

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Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish featuring tender chicken breast stuffed with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. The name "Cordon Bleu," which translates to "Blue Ribbon" in French, represents high-quality cuisine, and this dish lives up to its name with rich flavors, a delicate texture, and a satisfyingly crispy crust. It's a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even dinner parties. Below is a comprehensive guide to making Chicken Cordon Bleu, complete with tips and variations to help you master this delicious recipe.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices ham
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• For the Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Carefully cut each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season the inside and outside with salt and black pepper.
   Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each chicken breast pocket, then fold the chicken to enclose the filling.
   
2. Bread the Chicken:
   Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
   Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip in the egg and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they stick.
   
3. Bake the Chicken:
   Place the breaded chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the tops with melted butter.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   
4. Make the Sauce:
   While the chicken bakes, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
   Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
   Add the grated cheese and Dijon mustard, stirring until the cheese is melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   
5. Serve:
   Drizzle the cheese sauce over the baked chicken and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the chicken up to a day ahead and keep it in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat Tips: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven to keep the coating crispy.
• Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad.