If you’re craving an elegant dish that still feels like a comforting hug, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust that’s golden and irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe blends simple ingredients with classic techniques to create a meal that’s both impressive and approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the building blocks for your Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe—each one playing a crucial role. From the juicy chicken breasts that provide a tender base to the ham and Swiss cheese that add delightful layers of flavor, right down to the breadcrumbs that give this dish its signature crispiness, everything works together perfectly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized breasts for uniform cooking and easy rolling.
- 4 slices of ham: Use good-quality ham for a flavorful, salty contrast to the cheese.
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese: Mild and melty, it brings a creamy richness to the filling.
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs: Panko or regular both work well to achieve that golden, crunchy coating.
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour: Helps the breadcrumb coating stick perfectly.
- 2 eggs: Beaten to create an egg wash that binds the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the chicken and enhance all the flavors inside and out.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For browning the chicken just right before baking.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready to finish cooking the chicken evenly after searing. Take your chicken breasts and butterfly them—carefully slice them horizontally to open flat like a book, creating enough surface to lay your fillings while keeping them connected. This step ensures that the ham and Swiss cheese fillings are nicely tucked inside.
Step 2: Season and Assemble
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper evenly over the flattened chicken breasts to season the meat thoroughly. Then, lay a slice of ham and Swiss cheese on each breast. The combination of salty ham and creamy cheese inside the chicken will create a burst of delicious contrast. Fold the chicken back over to enclose the filling, creating neat little parcels of flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
This is where things get delightfully crispy. Dredge each stuffed chicken piece first in all-purpose flour, which helps the egg adhere. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, creating a sticky base for the breadcrumbs. Finally, coat each piece generously with breadcrumbs, ensuring every inch is covered for a satisfying crunch when cooked.
Step 4: Brown and Bake
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat—this adds a beautiful golden crust and locks in moisture. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until they turn a deep golden color. Then carefully transfer the skillet or move the chicken to a baking dish and finish cooking in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is perfectly melted.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This little pause helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender. Slice and get ready to wow your guests or family with this classic favorite that looks beautiful on any plate.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a bright, fresh touch that complements the rich flavors of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. You can also drizzle a bit of Dijon mustard sauce or a light creamy mustard sauce on top to amp up the tangy notes that cut through the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted baby vegetables, or even a crisp green salad with vinaigrette balance the meal and add texture contrasts that make dining even more enjoyable. For a touch of indulgence, consider creamy spinach or a light rice pilaf to soak up all the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, slice the Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe into medallions and fan them out on the plate, showcasing the gooey cheese and ham inside. Arrange some colorful vegetables or a bright sauce around the edges—plating with attention makes this dish perfect for entertaining or a special family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken chilled and covered to maintain moisture and flavor. This makes for an easy next-day meal that’s just as satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe pieces by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. This way, you always have a convenient, delicious option ready to thaw and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. This method preserves the crispy breadcrumb coating better than microwaving, which can make the breading soggy. For a quick option, a toaster oven or air fryer also works wonders to refresh the crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many stores carry gluten-free panko and flour blends that work great for coating the chicken.
What’s the best way to butterfly chicken breasts without tearing them?
Use a sharp knife and gently slice horizontally through the thickest part, stopping just before cutting all the way through, then open the chicken like a book. Patience and a steady hand help keep the meat intact.
Can I cook Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe completely on the stovetop?
You can pan-fry it thoroughly, but finishing in the oven ensures even cooking without burning the crust. If skipping the oven, cook over lower heat for longer while covering the pan, but watch carefully to avoid sogginess.
What should I do if the cheese melts out during cooking?
Make sure to fold the chicken tightly and seal any edges well before coating. Using toothpicks can help hold the shape. Also, avoid overfilling with cheese or ham to prevent leakage during cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. It brings together comforting ingredients with a touch of elegance, and once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to dishes for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly delicious this classic turns out!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu features tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, coated with crispy breadcrumbs, then pan-seared and baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines creamy, cheesy filling with a crunchy exterior, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
Breading
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
Seasoning and Cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken later.
- Prepare Chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost through the middle and opening it like a book. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add Filling: Lay one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese onto each butterflied chicken breast evenly.
- Fold Chicken: Carefully fold the chicken breast over the ham and cheese to fully enclose the filling, preparing it for breading.
- Breading Process: First dredge each stuffed chicken breast in all-purpose flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and brown them on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in moisture and adds color.
- Bake: Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese inside is melted.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes for easier serving.
Notes
- To ensure chicken cooks evenly, pound breasts to an even thickness before butterflying.
- Use freshly grated Swiss cheese for better melting quality and flavor.
- For a crunchier crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Check chicken internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Resting chicken after baking prevents the filling from leaking when sliced.
