Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish where chicken breasts are stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, breaded, and baked to perfection. The result is a crispy, golden exterior with a deliciously gooey, cheesy center. It’s a comforting, elegant dish perfect for dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices ham (preferably thin)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
- Roll the chicken tightly around the filling, securing the edges with toothpicks to hold them closed.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station:
- In one shallow dish, place the flour.
- In a second dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
- Set up a breading station:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Sauce (optional):
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat.
- Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks from the chicken and place the rolls on plates. Drizzle with the mustard cream sauce if desired.
- Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- For extra crunch, serve with crispy roasted potatoes or a side of garlic bread.
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a decadent dish with layers of flavor, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying with your family!