When I first attempted Chicken Cordon Bleu, I thought it was too fancy for me to pull off. But once I learned the secrets to rolling and breading the chicken, I discovered how easy (and fun!) it is. The crispy coating, savory ham, and oozing cheese create a dish that’s always a winner.
It’s my go-to for dinner parties and casual weekend meals alike because it impresses every time. Trust me, you’re going to love making this classic your own!
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
- 2 large chicken breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- 4 slices of ham: Opt for thinly sliced deli ham for easy layering and rolling.
- 4 slices or 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Freshly shredded or sliced for optimal meltiness.
- 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs): Provides the perfect crispy coating.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Helps the breading get golden and crunchy.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Used to make a creamy, tangy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: Adds a subtle zing to the sauce.
Note: This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a small dinner party or family meal.
Delicious Variations to Try
Switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Cheese Swap: Use cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or any cheese you love for a new spin.
- Bread Crumb Alternatives: Replace cornflakes with panko, crushed crackers, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Sauce Options: Pair with a creamy Parmesan sauce or garlic aioli for added richness.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time to set aside for your Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
- Rolling Pin or Meat Tenderizer: For flattening the chicken evenly.
- Plastic Wrap: Helps wrap the chicken rolls securely for neat shaping.
- Food Processor: To crush your cornflakes into fine crumbs.
- Baking Sheet: Ensures even baking for crispy rolls.
- Meat Thermometer: Guarantees your chicken is cooked perfectly to 160°F.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Making Chicken Cordon Bleu is simpler than you might think! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have an impressive dinner ready in no time.
Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap, then gently flatten them with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer. Aim for uniform thickness without tearing the chicken.
Add the Filling
Lay a slice of ham on top of the flattened chicken. Then, add a generous slice or small handful of shredded Swiss cheese on top. Be sure to distribute the fillings evenly to make rolling easier.
Roll and Wrap
Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you roll. Use plastic wrap to tightly secure the roll, twisting the ends to hold its shape. Chill the wrapped chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make handling and breading easier.
Coat the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Unwrap the chilled chicken rolls, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each roll into the melted butter and coat thoroughly in crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Press the coating gently to ensure it sticks.
Bake to Perfection
Place the breaded chicken rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the coating is golden and your kitchen smells amazing!
Make a Simple Sauce
While the chicken bakes, mix mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl. Adjust the mustard to taste, creating a creamy sauce with a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the dish.
Tips to Make Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Even Better
These tips come from my kitchen to yours for extra success:
- Room-Temperature Fillings: Use ham and cheese that aren’t too cold to ensure even melting.
- Take Time to Chill: Chilling the chicken rolls helps them hold their shape and makes breading easier.
- Finely Crush Crumbs: A finer consistency ensures an even, crispy coating.
- Check While Baking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or drying out the chicken.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Presentation matters! Slice each roll into rounds for a beautiful, layered look. Serve on a platter with vibrant steamed veggies like green beans or carrots, or pair with a fresh arugula salad. For extra flavor, drizzle the tangy mustard sauce over each slice or serve on the side for dipping.
Side Dish Ideas:
- Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Buttered asparagus or sautéed spinach
- A crisp walnut and mixed greens salad
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown of each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Calories: 513
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 42g
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Chicken Cordon Bleu is perfect for prepping in advance or storing extras!
- Make Ahead: Wrap the chicken rolls and chill them a day before baking. You’ll save time when you’re ready to cook!
- Freezing: Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before breading and baking.
- Storing Leftovers: Store cooked rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the exterior crispy.
Why This Recipe Will Be Your Favorite!
This Chicken Cordon Bleu ticks all the boxes for a standout meal. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Effortlessly Elegant: Perfect for impressing guests without fancy techniques or tools.
- Customizable Flavors: Easy to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep ahead for stress-free entertaining or quick weeknight dinners.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish works for any occasion.
- Crispy, Cheesy Goodness: The golden coating and gooey melted cheese are simply irresistible.
With this recipe, anyone can create a gourmet masterpiece with ease. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy, and delicious bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts sliced horizontally and flattened
- 4 slices ham thinly sliced deli-style
- 4 slices or 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard adjust to taste
Instructions
- Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap, then gently flatten them with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer. Aim for uniform thickness without tearing the chicken.
- Lay a slice of ham on top of the flattened chicken. Then, add a generous slice or small handful of shredded Swiss cheese on top. Be sure to distribute the fillings evenly to make rolling easier.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you roll. Use plastic wrap to tightly secure the roll, twisting the ends to hold its shape. Chill the wrapped chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make handling and breading easier.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Unwrap the chilled chicken rolls, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each roll into the melted butter and coat thoroughly in crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Press the coating gently to ensure it sticks.
- Place the breaded chicken rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the coating is golden and your kitchen smells amazing!
- While the chicken bakes, mix mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl. Adjust the mustard to taste, creating a creamy sauce with a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the dish.
Notes
- Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, etc.
- Breadcrumb Options: Panko, crushed crackers, or gluten-free crumbs
- Alternate Sauces: Creamy Parmesan or garlic aioli
