Cordon Bleu Chicken
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a classic dish that brings together juicy chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases crispy breading and a creamy Dijon sauce that elevates the flavors. With its delightful combination of textures and tastes, you’ll find Cordon Bleu Chicken is not just a meal but an experience worth savoring.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of ham and cheese inside tender chicken creates a flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or impressing guests at a dinner party.
- Impressive Presentation: The rolled chicken looks stunning when sliced, making it great for entertaining.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are the essential items you’ll need.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Baking sheet
- Baking rack
- Large skillet
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening the chicken breasts to the right thickness.
- Baking rack: Allows heat circulation for perfectly crispy breading without sogginess.
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 medium chicken breasts ((6-7 oz. each))
- 8 slices (12 ounces) deli cut Black Forest ham ((like Boars Head))
- 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
- toothpicks
- Fresh parsley for garnish, if desired
For the Breading
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 tsp EACH dried parsley, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder
- 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper
For the Dijon Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream ((or evaporated milk or half and half mixed with 1 TBS cornstarch))
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
- 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper
How to Make Cordon Bleu Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet by placing a baking rack on top and lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Flatten Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use the flat side of a meat mallet or the side of a can to gently pound them into an even thickness of about 1/4-inch.
Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
Lay two slices of ham over each flattened chicken breast. Evenly distribute a heaping quarter cup of shredded cheese down the center of the ham. Be sure to leave about a half-inch border on all sides.
Step 4: Roll Chicken
Starting from the smaller end of each chicken breast, tightly roll it up while folding over the ham onto the cheese as you go. Secure each roll with toothpicks to hold everything in place.
Step 5: Prepare Panko Breading
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt one and a half tablespoons of unsalted butter with one and a half tablespoons of olive oil. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir well to coat them in butter. Cook until golden brown before transferring them to a large shallow dish. Once cool, mix in Parmesan cheese and your chosen spices.
Step 6: Create Dijon Wash
In another shallow dish, whisk together two tablespoons of Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil until well combined. Take each chicken roll one at a time and brush it evenly with this mixture.
Step 7: Bread Chicken Rolls
Transfer each coated chicken roll into your breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently so that crumbs adhere well on all sides. Place them on the prepared baking rack with enough space between each roll.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in preheated oven until reaching an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. This should take about thirty to thirty-five minutes. Check during the last ten minutes and cover with foil if they are browning too quickly. Once done, transfer rolls to a cutting board and let rest for five minutes before slicing.
Step 9: Make Dijon Cream Sauce
In a large saucepan, whisk together all ingredients for the sauce until smooth. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer until thickened slightly.
Step 10: Serve
Slice your Cordon Bleu Chicken rolls and serve drizzled with Dijon Cream Sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this classic meal.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the chicken slices on a warm plate, drizzled with Dijon cream sauce for an elegant look.
Gourmet Plating
- Arrange the chicken with a side of sautéed vegetables and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.
Salad Companion
- Offer a light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.
Family Style
- Slice the chicken and place it on a large platter, allowing guests to serve themselves alongside sides of their choice.
Sandwich Twist
- Use leftover Cordon Bleu Chicken in sandwiches with crusty bread and fresh lettuce for a delicious lunchtime option.
Kids’ Favorite
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve it as finger food with toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
How to Perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken
Getting your Cordon Bleu Chicken just right takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection every time.
- Pound Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ham and cheese for the best flavor—Black Forest ham and Gruyere make an excellent combination.
- Don’t Rush Baking: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This ensures that your chicken is fully cooked but still moist.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making each slice tender.
Best Side Dishes for Cordon Bleu Chicken
To complement your delicious Cordon Bleu Chicken, consider these tasty side dishes that enhance its flavors while providing variety on your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic offer a rich contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch alongside your main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides sweetness and depth.
- Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy side brings a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the Cordon Bleu.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: A savory rice pilaf with herbs gives an aromatic base that pairs well with savory chicken flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing complements the dish while adding a zesty element.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: For comfort food lovers, this cheesy delight will appeal to all ages when served alongside.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for an appealing appetizer or side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cordon Bleu Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160 degrees F.
- Skipping the Pounding Step: Not flattening the chicken breasts can lead to uneven cooking. Be sure to pound them to an even thickness of 1/4-inch.
- Using Regular Ham: Using regular ham instead of Black Forest can change the flavor profile. Always opt for deli cut Black Forest ham for the best taste.
- Neglecting the Breading: Skipping the panko breading step can result in soggy chicken. Ensure you coat each roll thoroughly for a crispy texture.
- Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked Cordon Bleu Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short increments, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of broth or water and cover. Heat on low until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cordon Bleu Chicken.
How Do You Make Cordon Bleu Chicken?
To make Cordon Bleu Chicken, pound chicken breasts, layer with ham and cheese, roll tightly, bread with panko, bake, and serve with Dijon cream sauce.
What Can I Serve With Cordon Bleu Chicken?
Cordon Bleu Chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I Make Cordon Bleu Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What Is The Best Cheese For Cordon Bleu Chicken?
Swiss Gruyere cheese is ideal due to its melting qualities and flavor. However, you could also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
Is Cordon Bleu Chicken Healthy?
While delicious, traditional Cordon Bleu Chicken can be high in calories. For a healthier version, consider using leaner cuts of chicken and reducing cheese portions.
Final Thoughts
Cordon Bleu Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that can impress any guest. Feel free to customize your rolls by adding vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences!
Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory Black Forest ham, and creamy Swiss Gruyere cheese, all wrapped in a crispy panko crust. This classic recipe is not just about flavor; it’s an experience that turns any meal into a gourmet feast. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, the succulent chicken rolls are served with a rich Dijon cream sauce that elevates the taste. Easy to prepare and visually stunning when plated, Cordon Bleu Chicken is sure to impress both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 8 slices Black Forest ham
- 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon EACH salt, pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with a rack.
- Flatten each chicken breast to about 1/4 inch thick using a meat mallet.
- Layer two slices of ham and a quarter cup of cheese on each breast, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Prepare the panko breading by browning breadcrumbs in butter and olive oil, then mix in Parmesan and spices.
- Brush each chicken roll with a Dijon mixture, coat in breadcrumbs, and place on the baking rack.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- For the sauce, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and cream in a saucepan until smooth; bring to a boil then simmer until thickened.
- Slice the chicken rolls and serve drizzled with sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken roll (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
