Meals

Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Name: Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Swiss
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 8 slices of ham (smoked or honey); 8 slices of Swiss cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 cups breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking oil for frying

February 10, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that combines crispy textures with savory flavors? Chicken cordon bleu is that perfect marriage of juicy chicken, salty ham, and melted cheese all wrapped up in a golden-brown crust. It tantalizes your taste buds with every single bite. This beloved classic not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy to any dining occasion. Whether served for a family dinner or at a special gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

As I prepared my first chicken cordon bleu years ago in my cozy kitchen, the aroma wafting through the air instantly transported me back to my childhood. The sizzle of the oil and the anticipation of biting into a golden piece of heaven filled me with excitement. It’s an ideal dish for celebrations or simply when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience as we dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This chicken cordon bleu

Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Impressive Presentation: Not only does it taste amazing, but its golden-brown crust and cheesy center make it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that suits any occasion.

What Ingredients You Need?

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 pieces for optimal portion sizes; they should be thick enough to hold stuffing without falling apart.
Ham Slices: Use thinly sliced deli ham for easy layering; smoked or honey ham adds extra flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Opt for thin slices of Swiss cheese for melting perfection; it complements the ham beautifully.
Bread Crumbs: Use plain bread crumbs as they create a satisfying crunch; you can also use panko for extra crispiness.
Eggs: Two eggs are needed to help bind the coating; whisk them well before use.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for dusting the chicken before coating; it helps the egg adhere better.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Cook It!

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound them gently until about half an inch thick.

Layer Ham and Cheese

Remove the plastic wrap and lay one slice of ham followed by one slice of Swiss cheese on each pounded chicken breast.

Roll Up Carefully

Starting from one end, roll each chicken breast tightly around the filling. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Coat the Chicken

Dredge each rolled-up piece in flour first, then dip into beaten eggs before rolling in bread crumbs until well coated.

Bake and Serve

Arrange the coated rolls in the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Select Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavor; choose high-quality ham and cheese for optimal results.
Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded evenly so they cook uniformly; this prevents dry edges while maintaining juiciness.
Add Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your flour or breadcrumbs with salt and pepper; this enhances overall flavor without overpowering.

Mistakes to avoid

Not Using Quality Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for making chicken cordon bleu. Avoid pre-packaged or frozen chicken breasts, as these can lead to a dry and less flavorful dish. Instead, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and of good quality. Additionally, use real Swiss cheese and high-quality ham for the best flavor profile. The taste of your dish will greatly depend on the ingredients you choose, so prioritize freshness and quality.
Skipping the Pound Step
One common mistake when preparing chicken cordon bleu is skipping the pounding step. Pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and remains tender. If you skip this step, you risk having parts of the chicken that are undercooked while others may be overcooked. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about half an inch thick for optimal cooking results.
Overstuffing the Chicken
When preparing your chicken cordon bleu, it’s crucial not to overstuff the filling. While it may be tempting to add extra cheese or ham for more flavor, overstuffing can lead to messy results and difficulty in sealing the chicken properly. Aim for just enough filling—typically a slice of ham and cheese per breast—to ensure they cook uniformly and retain their shape during frying or baking.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken cordon bleu is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy texture of the roll.
Green beans: Steamed green beans add a fresh crunch to your plate.
Side salad: A light side salad balances the meal perfectly.

FAQs

What is chicken cordon bleu?

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish that consists of thinly pounded chicken breasts wrapped around ham and Swiss cheese. The rolled chicken is then breaded and fried until golden brown. It is often baked to ensure that it cooks evenly throughout. This dish originated in Switzerland but has gained popularity worldwide due to its savory flavors and satisfying textures.

Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken cordon bleu ahead of time! After assembling the rolls, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the frying and baking instructions as outlined in your recipe. If you’re preparing it further in advance, consider freezing the unbaked rolls for up to three months.

What can I use instead of Swiss cheese for chicken cordon bleu?

If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand or prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute it with provolone or mozzarella cheese. Both cheeses melt well and provide a creamy texture that works beautifully with the ham and chicken combination.

How do I know when my chicken cordon bleu is fully cooked?

To ensure your chicken cordon bleu is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of one roll. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C). Additionally, check that the juices run clear when cut into; this indicates that it is fully cooked through.