Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish featuring tender chicken breasts wrapped with ham and Swiss cheese, then baked to crispy perfection. This recipe brings the restaurant favorite into your home kitchen, making it easy to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal stress.
Introduction
With a crunchy breadcrumb coating and a gooey cheesy center, this dish impresses at family dinners, date nights, or special occasions. The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs ensures each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices deli ham
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1¼ cups breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish. Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and pound to about ¼ inch thickness.
Assemble the Rolls
Lay a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on each chicken breast. Roll the chicken tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip in egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently for an even coating. Place the breaded rolls in the prepared baking dish.
Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let rest a few minutes before slicing.
Serve
Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley. Pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Best Results
- Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Chill the rolled chicken for 10–15 minutes before breading to help it hold its shape.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overbake—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Variations
- Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Use prosciutto instead of deli ham for a gourmet twist.
- Try adding a layer of Dijon mustard under the ham for extra tang.
- Air-fry instead of baking for a crispier crust.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light mustard or creamy béchamel sauce on the side.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple pasta salad for a full meal.
- A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked, breaded chicken rolls in a single layer. Thaw overnight before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and bread the rolls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Boneless, skinless thighs can work but adjust cooking time—thicker pieces may need extra 5–10 minutes.
Q: Can this be gluten-free?
A: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Q: Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
A: Yes, cook over medium heat in oil until golden, then finish in the oven to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)
Calories: 450
Protein: 38g
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines crispiness, gooey cheese, and savory ham in every bite. Perfect for special occasions or elevating weeknight dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.