This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a yummy treat! Juicy chicken is stuffed with ham and gooey cheese, then coated in crunchy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
The best part? It comes with an Easy Dijon Sauce that gives it a tangy twist. I love serving this dish for special dinners—it always makes everyone smile and ask for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a tasty alternative, turkey cutlets work well—just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster!
Cheese: Swiss cheese gives that wonderful melty texture and flavor. If you prefer something stronger, Gruyère is an excellent substitution. For a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese.
Ham: Regular cooked ham is traditional, but feel free to switch it for turkey ham for a healthier option. I’ve used prosciutto before, and it adds a lovely richness!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Rolled Chicken Breasts?
Rolling the chicken tightly is key for juicy stuffing. Here’s how to master it:
- First, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and get tender.
- Layer ham and cheese along one edge of the chicken breast, leaving space at the edges.
- Start rolling tightly from the ham side, tucking in the filling as you go. Use toothpicks to secure the end after rolling.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if the first few rolls aren’t perfect. Just enjoy the process! 😊
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Easy Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water or milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For the Easy Dijon Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time for this delectable dish is about 30 minutes, followed by another 25 minutes of baking. In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to prepare a mouthwatering Chicken Cordon Bleu that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about 1/4-inch thickness. Be gentle to avoid tearing!
3. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle each flattened chicken breast with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
4. Add the Filling:
On each chicken breast, layer one slice of ham and one slice of cheese. Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly, and secure the ends with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside.
5. Set Up the Breading Station:
Gather three shallow dishes. Place flour in one, beat the eggs with water or milk in another, and mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese in the third.
6. Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it evenly with the panko-Parmesan mixture for that perfect crunchy layer!
7. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken rolls into the skillet. Cook until each side is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the browned chicken rolls to the greased baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Make the Easy Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and adjust the seasonings to your taste.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the toothpicks before slicing. Serve the chicken hot alongside a generous dollop of Easy Dijon Sauce on the side or drizzled over the top. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before using! The best way is to let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also use a quick method by placing the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, Gruyère is a great alternative for its rich flavor. For a lighter option, try using mozzarella or even a vegan cheese substitute, if needed.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls and even bread them a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply follow the frying and baking instructions after letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
