This Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful mix of crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and savory ham, all rolled up and baked to perfection. The easy Dijon sauce adds a tasty kick!
Every bite is a happy dance moment! I love serving this with some simple veggies on the side for a colorful plate. Who knew a fancy dish could be so simple to make? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they stay moist while rolling. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.
Ham: I recommend using Black Forest or any good-quality deli ham for great flavor. Can’t find ham? Try turkey or even cooked bacon for a fun twist!
Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional for its melting quality, but Gruyère adds a richer flavor. If you’re looking for something different, mozzarella or provolone can also work.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch since they’re lighter than regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, use crushed cornflakes for a similar effect!
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy and Delicious?
The key to making your Chicken Cordon Bleu crispy is in the breading process. Make sure to follow these steps closely:
- Flatten the chicken evenly to ensure quick, even cooking.
- Use a three-step breading process: flour, egg, then panko mixture. This helps the breadcrumbs stick well.
- Heat your oil until it’s hot before adding chicken. This sears the coating, locking in moisture and flavor.
Keep an eye on the color as you brown the chicken. You want a beautiful golden crust, which will also get a nice finish in the oven.
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 ham (such as deli or Black Forest ham)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for frying)
For the Easy Dijon Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in the kitchen. You’ll need 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking and baking to make it crispy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper so your chicken doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound each breast with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/2-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly!
3. Assemble the Rolls:
On each flattened chicken breast, place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese. Then, roll the chicken up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Use toothpicks if you need to hold the rolls together.
4. Set Up for Breading:
In three shallow bowls, prepare for breading: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with the beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give your chicken a fantastic crunch!
5. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each chicken roll and first coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a good coating.
6. Brown the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add your chicken rolls. Brown them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
7. Bake in the Oven:
After browning, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked (they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese inside is melted.
8. Make the Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, whip up your easy Dijon sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it’s smooth and tasty!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done baking, remove the toothpicks. Plate your crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu and drizzle generously with the Dijon sauce. It’s a delight!
10. Relish the Flavor:
Dig in and enjoy your crispy creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu! It’s sure to impress your family or guests!
This dish perfectly balances a crispy exterior with a creamy, cheesy filling, and the Dijon sauce brings a lovely tang that complements it all beautifully. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and Gruyère are classic choices, you can also use mozzarella for a milder flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best texture!
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you’re not a fan of ham, you can use turkey or chicken breast slices instead. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious twist!
How Can I Prepare This in Advance?
You can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to keep them well-covered! When you’re ready to cook, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the crust crispy.
