Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With its crispy golden crust, melted cheese, and savory ham filling, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or treat your family to something special, this recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu is sure to hit the spot. It combines tender chicken with gooey cheese and a deliciously crispy coating, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. Here are just a few:
- Easy to Make – Despite its fancy name, Chicken Cordon Bleu is straightforward to prepare. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Minimal Ingredients – You only need a few key ingredients to make this flavorful dish. Chicken breasts, ham, Swiss cheese, and breadcrumbs are all you need for this easy recipe.
- Customizable – Whether you prefer it spicy, extra cheesy, or with a different protein, this recipe is versatile enough to suit your preferences.
- Impressive – Serve it for a special occasion or just a family meal, and you’re guaranteed to impress. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to wow anyone at the table.
- Satisfying – With the crispy exterior and cheesy, ham-filled center, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious!
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
To make this Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham (preferably deli-style)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
Substitutes:
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Prep the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay a slice of ham on each chicken breast, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Roll the chicken tightly around the filling and secure it with toothpicks.
- Breading: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. First, dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Make sure the rolls are evenly coated.
- Cooking: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Once the rolls are browned, transfer them to a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Slice the chicken rolls into rounds to reveal the beautiful layers of ham and cheese. Serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a simple salad.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Extra Flavor: To make your Chicken Cordon Bleu even more flavorful, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Variation: Add a layer of spicy mustard or hot sauce inside the chicken rolls for an extra kick.
- Make it a Meal: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables or a hearty side like potato gratin to make it a complete meal.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storing: If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, but the breading may lose some of its crispiness.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’re sure to enjoy these delicious recipes as well! Whether you’re craving rich, creamy flavors or something a little lighter, these dishes will satisfy your taste buds:
- Butter Chicken Recipe – A classic Indian dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with spices.
- Buffalo Chicken Dip – A crowd-pleasing dip that’s perfect for parties or game day.
- BLT Chicken Salad – A fresh, light salad with all the delicious flavors of a BLT combined with tender chicken.
Each of these recipes brings something unique to the table, just like Chicken Cordon Bleu, so be sure to give them a try!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. - Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rolls and bread them ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. - Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded, unbaked chicken rolls for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless recipe that combines everything you love: tender chicken, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a perfectly crispy crust. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to be a hit with anyone you serve it to. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a must-try!
Don’t forget to give it a try, share your experience, and follow us for more delicious recipes like this one. Happy cooking!
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham deli-style
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay a slice of ham on each chicken breast, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Breading: Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat in breadcrumbs.
- Cook: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken rolls for 4-5 minutes on each side until crispy. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks and slice into rounds. Serve with your favorite sides.