As I opened my oven to the tantalizing aroma wafting through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Today, I was revisiting a classic that never fails to impress: Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu. This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a golden breadcrumb crust. It’s a comforting creation that instantly transforms any dinner table into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for both relaxed family meals and special gatherings. What’s even better? This recipe is easy to prepare and offers a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to learn how to make this French-American classic that will have everyone asking for seconds?
Why will you love this Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Ease of Preparation: You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create this masterpiece! With simple steps, you’ll have a delectable dish in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious combination of juicy chicken, flavorful ham, and melted Swiss cheese bursts with taste, especially when paired with a creamy Dijon sauce that truly elevates the experience.
Versatile Serving Options: This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. Serve it with fresh green beans or fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Impressive Presentation: The golden, crispy exterior promises a gorgeous plating that will wow your guests. Everyone will be asking how you achieved such restaurant-worthy results!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken rolls the night before and simply bake them when you’re ready, making weeknight cooking a breeze. For tips on other show-stopping family meals, check out our guide on easy weeknight dinners.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Tender and boneless for easy rolling.
• Ham – Choose thinly sliced deli ham for a savory kick.
• Swiss Cheese – Melts perfectly, but consider Gruyère for an authentic touch.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps breadcrumbs adhere for that crispy exterior.
• Eggs – Act as the binding agent in the breadcrumb coating.
• Breadcrumbs – Use panko for a delightful crunch in your Chicken Cordon Bleu.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil and Butter – Combines flavor and moisture for searing the chicken.
• Dijon Mustard – The key tangy base for an exquisite cream sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Enhances the sauce with a rich, savory depth.
• Milk – Creates a luscious, creamy texture—don’t hesitate to use plant-based alternatives if preferred.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential to enhance flavors at every cooking stage.
• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds color and freshness when serving.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the ideal temperature for baking your Chicken Cordon Bleu, resulting in a perfectly cooked golden crust. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them tender. Next, layer each breast with slices of ham and Swiss cheese, then carefully roll them up tightly. Secure the rolls with toothpicks to keep everything tucked in during cooking.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Set up your breading station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes. Dredge each chicken roll in flour first, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well for that desired crispy exterior.
Step 4: Sear Chicken
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil and a couple of tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken rolls and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are beautifully golden brown. This step adds an inviting crunch and depth of flavor to your Chicken Cordon Bleu before it goes in the oven.
Step 5: Bake
Carefully transfer the seared chicken rolls to a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Bake the Chicken Cordon Bleu uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They are ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the coating is a lovely, crisp golden color that tempts the taste buds.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Sauce
While the chicken is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in an equal amount of flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. Gradually pour in about 1 cup of milk, whisking until smooth. Mix in Dijon mustard and grated Parmesan cheese, and simmer until the sauce thickens, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Once the Chicken Cordon Bleu is out of the oven, let it rest for a moment before removing the toothpicks. Slice each roll into medallions, allowing the melted cheese and ham to reveal themselves. Drizzle with the creamy Dijon sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color. Enjoy your culinary triumph!
What to Serve with Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings that enhance every bite of this crispy delight.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes complements the savory filling of the Chicken Cordon Bleu, making every forkful a comforting experience.
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Garlic Green Beans: Their crisp texture adds a fresh crunch and subtle flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Tossed in olive oil and garlic, they bring vibrancy to your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds natural sweetness, brightening up the hearty chicken and offering a delightful contrast.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing soothe the palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy Dijon sauce. It’s a classic favorite that everyone loves.
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Steamed Broccoli: With its bright green color and subtle crunch, broccoli adds a nutritional punch alongside your indulgent main dish, making it both healthy and satisfying.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and bringing a refreshing touch to every sip.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your meal on a sweet note! The rich, velvety mousse is the perfect balance to your savory entrée, leaving everyone with a blissful ending.
These pairings will elevate your dining experience and make the baked Chicken Cordon Bleu the star of your dinner table!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked or cooked chicken rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy the savory flavors just like they were freshly made!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and adjust this Chicken Cordon Bleu to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy cheese with lactose-free alternatives and use almond or oat milk in the sauce for a creamy texture without the dairy. This lets everyone enjoy the flavors without any discomfort.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs will work beautifully, allowing for a delightful crunch without added gluten.
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Herb-Infused: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture. This not only adds a refreshing aroma but also brightens each bite, making your dish a true crowd-pleaser!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumbs for an added heat. If you love a little spice in your life, this is the perfect twist to excite your palate.
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Veggie Variation: Instead of ham, use roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian option. This delightful twist keeps the dish hearty while accommodating plant-based preferences.
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Cheese Combo: Try using a blend of Swiss cheese and Fontina for a richer taste experience. The creamy melt of Fontina paired with the nutty flavor of Swiss elevates the dining experience!
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Mustard Upgrade: Switch up the Dijon mustard with whole grain or spicy brown mustard. This substitution offers a new layer of flavor, adding a pleasing texture and unexpected zing.
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Stuffed Twist: Stuff the chicken with sautéed spinach or artichoke hearts along with ham and cheese. This hearty addition will surprise and delight your guests with every bite!
With these variations, you can customize your Chicken Cordon Bleu to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. For more comforting recipes that embrace variations, check out our guide on family-friendly dinners for inspiration!
Expert Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu
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Roll Tightly: Ensure you roll the chicken layers as tightly as possible and secure them with toothpicks to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
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Prep in Advance: You can assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu rolls a day ahead. Just refrigerate until you’re ready to bake for an even easier meal.
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Choose the Right Breadcrumbs: For that perfect crunchy coating, use panko breadcrumbs. They provide a fantastic texture that makes your Chicken Cordon Bleu irresistible.
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Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal tenderness.
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Thawing Frozen Chicken: If using frozen chicken breasts, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even cooking and better flavor in your Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Cordon Bleu rolls are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to get ahead on your cooking! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, ensuring they’re tightly wrapped to maintain moisture. Additionally, if you need even more time, consider freezing the unbaked rolls for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the chicken as directed, and you’ll enjoy a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made, saving you precious time on busy weeknights.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are uniform in size, about 6 to 8 ounces each. This helps ensure even cooking. Look for breasts that feel firm to the touch and have a pale pink color without any dark spots or bruising.
How should I store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu?
To keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can affect texture.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Very! You can freeze both uncooked and cooked rolls for up to 2 months. If you’re freezing uncooked rolls, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to ensure they don’t get freezer burn. For cooked ones, let them cool completely before wrapping in foil or placing in a freezer-safe container. Remember to label the package with the date!
What if my chicken rolls fall apart during cooking?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! To prevent this, ensure you roll the chicken tightly and use toothpicks to secure them firmly. If they still fall apart, try cooking them in a lightly buttered skillet over lower heat to allow them to set before transferring to the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! For a lactose-free option, swap Swiss cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use plant-based milk for the sauce. If serving to guests with allergies, check that the ham and any other pre-packaged ingredients are free from common allergens. Always label dishes if serving to those with food sensitivities.
How do I make ahead Chicken Cordon Bleu?
You can certainly prepare your Chicken Cordon Bleu rolls in advance. Just follow these steps: assemble the rolls as instructed, but instead of baking, arrange them in a single layer in a dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bake them in the preheated oven as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Luscious Dijon Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Layer each breast with ham and Swiss cheese, then roll them up and secure with toothpicks.
- Set up your breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate dishes. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then add milk, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened, season to taste.
- Let the Chicken Cordon Bleu rest before slicing, drizzle with creamy sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.
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