Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless and sophisticated dish that brings together tender chicken, rich Swiss cheese, and savory ham. This delightful combination is breaded and baked to golden perfection, making it a perfect meal for special occasions or even a comforting dinner at home. The crispy breadcrumb coating contrasts beautifully with the juicy, flavorful filling, creating a satisfying and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For this classic Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves: Chicken breasts serve as the perfect canvas for the delicious ham and cheese filling.

¼ teaspoon salt: To season the chicken.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a little kick of flavor.
6 slices Swiss cheese: The creamy, mild flavor of Swiss cheese pairs wonderfully with the ham and chicken.

4 slices cooked ham: A savory and slightly salty component that complements the cheese.
½ cup seasoned bread crumbs: These will provide a crispy, golden crust on the outside of the chicken.
Nonstick cooking spray: To ensure your chicken doesn’t stick while baking.

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface. If necessary, use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to about ¼-inch thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll with the filling.

2. Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle each chicken breast with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken for the best flavor.

3. Assemble the Filling:

Lay 1 to 1 ½ slices of Swiss cheese on each piece of chicken, depending on the size of the chicken breast. Next, place 1 slice of cooked ham on top of the cheese. You may fold the ham or cheese to fit the chicken breast if needed.
Roll up each chicken breast carefully, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you go to encase the filling. Secure each roll with toothpicks, making sure the cheese and ham are completely inside the chicken.

4. Coat with Breadcrumbs:

Pour ½ cup of seasoned bread crumbs onto a plate or shallow dish. Gently roll each stuffed chicken breast in the bread crumbs, ensuring the entire surface is coated evenly. This will give the chicken a crunchy, golden crust.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Place the breaded chicken breasts seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with nonstick cooking spray to help the breadcrumbs crisp up as they bake.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden and crispy, while the cheese inside will be melted and gooey.

6. Serve:

Once done, remove the toothpicks and serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of roasted potatoes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350-400
Protein: 36g
Fat: 17g

Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 820mg

This dish is a great source of protein thanks to the chicken and ham, while the Swiss cheese adds calcium. The breadcrumbs add a modest amount of carbohydrates, while baking the dish instead of frying keeps the fat content lower.

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can substitute it with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a slightly different flavor.

Can I fry Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of baking it?

Yes, you can fry it! Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the breaded chicken until golden brown on all sides. Then finish cooking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.

What if I don’t have seasoned breadcrumbs?

You can make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or any other spices you prefer.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing: To freeze, wrap each cooked chicken breast individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Cooking Tips:

Pounding the Chicken: Ensuring that the chicken is evenly pounded will make it easier to roll and will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. If the chicken breasts are too thick, they may not cook through properly in the oven.
Cheese Substitutions: For a creamier filling, you can substitute part of the Swiss cheese with a soft cheese like cream cheese or Brie.

Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls during cooking, but remember to remove them before serving to avoid any surprises at the dinner table.

Conclusion:

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a fantastic dish that combines juicy chicken, savory ham, and melty cheese inside a crispy breaded coating. It’s a satisfying and indulgent meal that can be prepared with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures that make this dish a classic.