Cordon Bleu Chicken

Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory ham and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, showcasing a unique blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The crispy panko crust adds texture while the creamy Dijon sauce elevates the dish to gourmet status.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Breading
• For the Dijon Cream Sauce
• How to Make Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Flatten Chicken
• Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
• Step 4: Roll Chicken
• Step 5: Prepare Panko Breading
• Step 6: Create Dijon Wash
• Step 7: Bread Chicken Rolls
• Step 8: Bake Chicken
• Step 9: Prepare Dijon Cream Sauce
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Pairing with Fresh Salads
• Accompanying with Starchy Sides
• Enhancing with Vegetables
• Garnishing for Presentation
• How to Perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Reheating Cordon Bleu Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How Do You Make Cordon Bleu Chicken?
• What Sauce Goes Well with Cordon Bleu Chicken?
• Can I Prepare Cordon Bleu Chicken Ahead of Time?
• Can I Use Different Cheeses?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Swiss cheese and Black Forest ham creates a rich, savory taste that is truly irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, Cordon Bleu Chicken fits any meal plan.
• Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit among children and adults alike.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve with vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal that suits your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Baking sheet
• Baking rack
• Large skillet
• Shallow dishes for breading

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness in chicken breasts for uniform cooking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking while allowing air to circulate around the chicken.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning panko breadcrumbs to achieve that crispy texture.
• Shallow dishes: Ideal for easy coating of chicken in breading and sauces.

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 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 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 rimmed baking sheet by placing a baking rack on top and lightly spraying it with cooking spray; set aside.

Step 2: Flatten Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use the flat side of your meat mallet or the side of a can to pound the chicken until it reaches an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.

Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese

Lay two slices of ham over each chicken breast. Evenly distribute about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese down the center of each piece of ham while leaving a 1/2-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 on one end to keep it from oozing out. Secure each roll with toothpicks.

Step 5: Prepare Panko Breading

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir until they are golden brown. Transfer immediately to a large shallow dish once they cool down. Mix in Parmesan cheese and spices.

Step 6: Create Dijon Wash

In another shallow dish, whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil. Take one chicken roll at a time and brush it generously with this mixture.

Step 7: Bread Chicken Rolls

After applying the Dijon wash, coat each chicken roll in the prepared breading by pressing crumbs onto all sides. Place them on your prepared baking rack with some space between each roll.

Step 8: Bake Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit on an instant-read thermometer—approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Check during the last ten minutes; cover with foil if browning too much. Allow resting on a cutting board for about five minutes before slicing.

Step 9: Prepare Dijon Cream Sauce

In a large saucepan, whisk together all sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until thickened slightly. Note that it will thicken more once off heat.

Step 10: Serve

Serve sliced Cordon Bleu Chicken drizzled with Dijon cream sauce and garnish with parsley if desired.

Now you have all you need to create an amazing Cordon Bleu Chicken dish! Enjoy your culinary creation!

How to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken

Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that deserves to shine on your dining table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pairing with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing complements the richness of Cordon Bleu Chicken.
• Greek Salad: The freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a nice contrast to the savory chicken.

Accompanying with Starchy Sides

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can soak up the Dijon cream sauce beautifully.

Enhancing with Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

Garnishing for Presentation

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or thyme over the sliced chicken not only enhances flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation.
• Lemon Wedges: A wedge of lemon can brighten up the dish, providing a zesty finish that cuts through the richness.

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How to Perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken

Perfecting Cordon Bleu Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken breasts and quality ham. This ensures better flavor and texture in your final dish.
• Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken evenly to avoid uneven cooking. This helps each piece cook uniformly.
• Secure Properly: Use toothpicks generously to hold everything together while baking. This prevents any filling from escaping during cooking.
• Monitor Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the chicken to rest for at least five minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and improves texture.
• Make Extra Sauce: Consider doubling the Dijon cream sauce recipe so you have plenty for serving on the side.

Best Side Dishes for Cordon Bleu Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Cordon Bleu Chicken experience even further. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
2. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach provides a decadent complement, enhancing the overall meal experience.
3. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy pasta side offers comfort and pairs well with the flavors of Cordon Bleu Chicken.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds a healthy option that balances out rich flavors on your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with succulent chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a simple yet delicious addition that brings seasonal freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cordon Bleu Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
• Not Flattening the Chicken: If you skip flattening the chicken breasts, they may not cook evenly. Use a meat mallet to pound them to 1/4-inch thickness for optimal cooking.
• Skipping the Dijon Wash: The Dijon wash is essential for flavor and helps the breadcrumbs stick. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth and keeps the coating intact.
• Using Regular Ham: Opt for high-quality deli cut Black Forest ham. Lower quality ham can affect the taste and texture of your Cordon Bleu Chicken.
• Neglecting Rest Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial. This helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cordon Bleu Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cordon Bleu Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen Cordon Bleu Chicken can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cordon Bleu Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat until warm (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through, checking often.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and cover. Heat until warmed through, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cordon Bleu Chicken that might help you in your cooking journey.

How Do You Make Cordon Bleu Chicken?

To make Cordon Bleu Chicken, flatten chicken breasts, layer with ham and cheese, roll tightly, bread with panko, and bake until cooked through. Serve with Dijon cream sauce for added flavor.

What Sauce Goes Well with Cordon Bleu Chicken?

A creamy Dijon sauce pairs beautifully with Cordon Bleu Chicken. It adds richness and complements the flavors of ham and cheese perfectly.

Can I Prepare Cordon Bleu Chicken Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

Can I Use Different Cheeses?

Yes! While Swiss Gruyere is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Cordon Bleu Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe will surely delight everyone at the table. Feel free to customize by adding herbs or substituting ingredients based on your preferences!