Description
Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Rolls
A crispy, cheesy delight that’s as elegant as it is delicious!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 slices of ham
4 slices of Swiss or mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley
for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with a meat mallet until thin. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Rolls:
Lay a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each chicken breast. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Coat the Rolls:
Dredge each roll in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
Cook the Rolls:
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
Serve with Sauce:
Serve the chicken rolls hot, drizzled with creamy sauce (optional) and garnished with fresh parsley.
This crispy chicken cordon bleu is a showstopper—perfect for dinner parties or a fancy family meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Pound the Chicken: Place each breast between plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides.
2. Layer & Roll: On each breast, place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese. Roll from the short end into a tight cylinder. Secure with 2-3 toothpicks.
3. Set Up Breading Station: Use three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
4. Bread Thoroughly: Dredge each roll in flour (shake off excess), coat in egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Place on a plate.
5. Pan-Sear: In an oven-safe skillet, heat oil/butter over medium heat. Brown rolls on all sides until golden, about 10-12 minutes total.
6. Finish in Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these golden rolls sliced on a bias to show off the layers. They pair beautifully with a creamy Dijon sauce, garlic aioli, or a simple lemon-butter sauce. For sides, consider buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness.
How-to Summary
Pound chicken thin, layer with ham and cheese, roll tightly, and secure. Bread using a standard flour, egg, and breadcrumb/Parmesan station. Pan-sear until golden, then finish baking in the oven until cooked through. Let rest briefly before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes. You can assemble, bread, and refrigerate the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Cook just before serving for optimal crispiness.
What’s the best way to ensure the cheese doesn’t leak? Use thicker slices of cheese (not pre-shredded) and ensure the chicken roll is very tight. Chilling the breaded rolls for 30 minutes before cooking also helps.
Can I air fry these? Absolutely. After pan-searing for color, air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese? Gruyère is a classic alternative. Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar work well for a different flavor profile.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warm to maintain the crispy coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Pounding Chicken Too Thick: This makes rolling difficult and results in uneven cooking.
- Overstuffing: Using too much ham/cheese prevents a tight seal, causing filling to ooze out.
- Skipping the Sear: Baking without searing first yields a pale, less crispy exterior.
- Not Securing Properly: Use enough toothpicks to hold the roll’s shape during cooking.
- Slicing Immediately: Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking so the juices redistribute.
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Rolls transform a classic dish into an elegant, handheld delight. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked, golden exterior with a molten, savory core. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight dinner. Enjoy the delicious payoff of this timeless flavor combination.