Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Topped with a luscious creamy Dijon sauce, this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner at home. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a favorite among many.

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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 Creamy Dijon Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
• Step 3: Prepare for Frying
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• With Fresh Vegetables
• Accompanied by a Salad
• With Starches
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Can I bake Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of frying?
• What side dishes pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• How do I make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
• Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your guests.
• Elegant Presentation: The rolled shape and creamy sauce make this dish look sophisticated and appealing on any dining table.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or romantic evenings at home.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.
• Make Ahead Option: This recipe can be assembled in advance, making it convenient for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, having the right tools is essential. These tools not only aid in preparation but also ensure that each step is executed smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Deep pan or fryer
• Three mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps to flatten the chicken evenly for easy rolling and cooking.
• Deep pan or fryer: Ensures even frying of the chicken rolls, resulting in a crispy crust.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly when making the creamy Dijon sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ lb ham, thinly sliced
• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs (100 g)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (480 mL)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (60 g)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (100 g)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat them evenly. Then place one chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it down to about ½ inch (1 cm) thick.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Remove the plastic wrap from the flattened chicken. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top of each breast followed by 2 slices of ham. Add another layer of Swiss cheese and ham on top. Roll each chicken breast tightly and wrap it in plastic wrap. Twist and tie the ends securely. Repeat this process with all remaining chicken breasts and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow them to set.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

Preheat your deep pan with about 2 inches (5 cm) of oil until it reaches 325°F (170°C). Set up three bowls—one filled with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each rolled chicken piece first in flour, then dip into egg wash before coating it evenly with breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Carefully place each chicken roll into the hot oil. Fry them for about 5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. If necessary, check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You may transfer them to a wire rack over a baking sheet and finish baking them in a preheated oven at 325°F (170°C).

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter while sautéing minced garlic until soft. Gradually whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly add milk while continuously whisking until the mixture thickens and simmers. Stir in Dijon mustard along with Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the cooked chicken rolls carefully. Drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce before serving. Pair this delicious dish with fresh vegetables, a green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Serving Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu can elevate any meal, making it feel special and indulgent. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and fresh taste that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and savory croutons, creating a refreshing contrast to the heavy chicken dish.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu.

With Starches

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are the perfect base for soaking up the delicious Dijon sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a lovely backdrop for this elegant dish, making each bite satisfying.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu can make all the difference in flavor and presentation. Here are some essential tips for success.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the chicken well before rolling. This enhances flavor from within.
• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
• Proper Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. They create a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices when slicing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavors that can elevate your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pairing side dishes with your creamy chicken will enhance its flavors and complete your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with savory chicken flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with vegetables makes for a nutritious side that complements the dish without overpowering it.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers a sweet crunch that plays nicely against the creamy sauce.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach brings a vibrant green color and earthy flavor that enhances your plate visually and nutritionally.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Inadequate pounding: Not pounding the chicken breasts evenly can cause uneven cooking. Aim for a uniform thickness of about ½ inch to ensure even doneness.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many chicken rolls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy breading. Fry in batches for a crispy texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Substituting Swiss cheese with a lesser quality can affect flavor and meltability. Stick with good-quality Swiss or try alternatives like Gruyère.
• Neglecting sauce preparation: Rushing the creamy Dijon sauce can result in lumps. Take your time whisking the flour and milk for a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, covering lightly to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious dish made with chicken breasts filled with ham and Swiss cheese, fried until golden, and served with a rich Dijon sauce.

Can I bake Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes if you prefer a healthier option.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad complement this dish beautifully.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

You can assemble the chicken rolls and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep easier!

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Definitely! Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as tasty alternatives to Swiss cheese.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is an elegant yet simple dish that impresses at any dinner table. Its versatility allows for customization through different cheeses or sides, making it suitable for various occasions. Try it out today and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic favorite!