Description
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish known for its rich flavors and sophisticated presentation. Despite its French name, it was actually created in Switzerland as a variation of schnitzel. This recipe features tender chicken breasts, Swiss cheese, and savory ham rolled into a delicious bundle, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and served with a creamy Dijon sauce. Perfect for any special occasion!
4 boneless chicken breasts
16 slices Swiss cheese
½ lb thinly sliced ham
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Pound chicken, layer with cheese and ham, roll tightly, bread, and fry or bake.
2. Serve with creamy Dijon sauce.
Prep Time: 20 min
Kcal: 550 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Add Fillings: Lay two slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, followed by a layer of thinly sliced ham (about 1/4 lb total per breast).
3. Roll Tightly: Starting from the shorter end, tightly roll up the chicken, tucking in the filling as you go. Secure the seam and ends with toothpicks.
4. Bread the Rolls: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. Dredge each roll in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in panko, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Cook: For baking, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through. For frying, heat 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry, turning, for about 15-20 minutes.
6. Make the Sauce: While chicken rests, prepare a creamy Dijon sauce by whisking together 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan in a saucepan over medium heat until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu sliced on a bias to showcase the spiral. Pair it with light, fresh sides to balance the richness. Excellent choices include garlic roasted asparagus, a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or buttered egg noodles. Drizzle the warm Dijon sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
How-to Summary
Pound chicken breasts thin, layer with Swiss cheese and ham, then roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks. Bread by coating in flour, beaten egg, and panko crumbs. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or pan-fry until golden and cooked through. Let rest before slicing and serve with a creamy Dijon sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble and bread the rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. For best crispiness, add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese? Gruyère is a classic alternative with excellent melting qualities. For a sharper flavor, try Emmental or even a mild provolone.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the roll; it should read 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be a deep golden brown.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the coating.
What’s the best way to get a crispy coating when baking? The key is to generously spray or brush the breaded rolls with a high-heat oil (like avocado or canola) before baking. This helps the panko brown and crisp beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the chicken, as this can cause the roll to burst during cooking. Ensure you pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly. Do not skip securing the rolls with toothpicks; this is crucial for holding the shape. Finally, let the cooked chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing a dry result.
Conclusion
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu transforms classic ingredients into an impressive, restaurant-quality meal perfect for dinner parties or a special family dinner. With its crispy exterior, flavorful cheesy ham filling, and luxurious sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master this elegant dish with confidence and ease.