Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe to Try Tonight

If you’re craving an elegant yet surprisingly simple dinner, this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is exactly what you need. With its golden, crispy crust, tender chicken breast wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, Chicken Cordon Bleu offers a delicious way to impress without hours of cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Classic Comfort: The blend of chicken, ham, and cheese offers a timeless flavor combination everyone enjoys.
• Impressive Presentation: It looks fancy and tastes gourmet, making it ideal for guests or family dinners.
• Customizable Flavors: Adaptations for cheese types or breading options allow for personalization.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters often love this crispy, cheesy delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe lies in using simple, wholesome ingredients that each add to the dish’s irresistible taste and texture. Fresh chicken breasts provide the base, while sliced ham and Swiss cheese create that signature richness. The breading, made with breadcrumbs and seasonings, guarantees a satisfying crunch.

• Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts that are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
• Ham Slices: Use thinly sliced ham for a perfect balance of savory flavor without overpowering.
• Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully inside, adding gooey richness and slight nuttiness.
• Bread Crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating; seasoned varieties work well.
• Eggs: Used for the egg wash to help the crumbs stick firmly to the chicken.
• Flour: For dredging, it helps the egg wash adhere for a crispy crust.
• Butter: Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken while cooking in the pan.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance every layer of flavor.

Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Feel free to make this classic Chicken Cordon Bleu your own by trying different twists that suit your pantry, dietary preferences, or just your mood. It’s incredibly adaptable without losing that beloved base flavor.

• Cheese Swaps: Replace Swiss with Gruyere or mozzarella for different melting textures and tastes.
• Ham Alternatives: Use prosciutto or turkey slices if you prefer a leaner or smoky flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to accommodate dietary needs.
• Baked Version: Skip frying and bake in the oven for a lighter, less hands-on approach.
• Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic punch.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by carefully pounding your chicken breasts to an even thinness, about half an inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to roll.

Step 2: Layer Ham and Cheese

Once flattened, layer one or two slices of ham over each breast, then place the Swiss cheese on top. The layering sets up the delicious filling for your Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Step 3: Roll and Secure

Roll the chicken breast tightly around the ham and cheese, securing it with toothpicks to keep everything in place during cooking.

Step 4: Bread the Rolls

Set up a dredging station with separate bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken roll first in flour, then dip into eggs, and finally roll in breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides, then finish cooking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and cheese is melted.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Even Thickness: Make sure chicken breasts are evenly pounded to prevent dry or undercooked spots.
• Keep Rolls Tight: Use toothpicks and press gently when rolling to avoid stuffing falling out during cooking.
• Season Well: Add salt and pepper to both chicken and breadcrumb mix for balanced flavor throughout.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They crisp up better than regular breadcrumbs for that restaurant-quality crunch.
• Don’t Overcrowd Pan: Cook rolls in batches if needed to maintain crispiness and even browning.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a burst of color and subtle freshness that complements the richness of the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu with classic sides such as buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad to round out the meal deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the roulades into medallions and arrange beautifully on a platter for a stunning presentation that lets guests see all the layers inside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken rolls by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve crispiness better than a microwave.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can swap it for Gruyere, mozzarella, or even cheddar to vary the flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Chicken Cordon Bleu can be prepped ahead and cooked later; just store the rolled and breaded chicken in the fridge or freezer until ready to cook.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while cooking?

Make sure to roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks; also, don’t overfill with cheese to reduce leakage during cooking.

Can I bake Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of frying?

Of course! Baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes is a healthier alternative that still yields a crispy crust if you use panko breadcrumbs.

What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu for a full meal?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad work beautifully to complement the richness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients with impressive flavor and presentation. It’s perfect for when you want something special without complicated cooking. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe tonight and enjoy that wonderful crispy crust and melty, savory filling in every bite.

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