If you have ever been charmed by the classic flavors of a restaurant-quality dish that somehow still feels cozy and approachable, this Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary rotation. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts wrapped lovingly around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all encased in a perfectly golden, crispy breadcrumb coating. The magic lies in how simple ingredients combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that feel indulgent without fuss. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for an impressive yet straightforward meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a star role in creating that mouthwatering balance of tastes and textures. From the delicate Swiss cheese to the crispy breadcrumbs, each component is essential to bring this dish to life in your kitchen.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These serve as the tender, juicy base that holds all the delicious fillings together.
- 8 slices of ham: Adds a smoky, salty layer that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to create that signature creamy center you crave.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breadcrumbs stick and ensures an even, crispy crust.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the adhesive to bind the flour and breadcrumbs coating.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides that satisfying, crunchy exterior that seals in all the flavors.
- Olive oil or butter for cooking: Adds richness and aids in browning the chicken rolls to perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors throughout.
How to Make Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the heat builds, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This little prep step ensures your golden chicken rolls slide off easily after baking.
Step 2: Pound and Season the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re about half an inch thick. This flattening not only tenderizes the meat but also makes rolling easier. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to build a flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Layer Your Ham and Cheese
Now comes the delicious layering: place two slices of ham on each flattened breast, then top with a slice of Swiss cheese. These layers create the iconic fillings that melt and mingle inside. Roll the chicken breasts tightly to envelop the ham and cheese; if needed, use toothpicks to keep everything snug and secure.
Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls or plates—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. This setup makes the breading process smooth and efficient. Dredge each chicken roll in flour first to coat evenly, dip into the eggs to help the crumbs stick, and finally, roll in breadcrumbs to create a crust ready to crisp up.
Step 5: Sear for Golden Perfection
Heat a generous splash of olive oil or a knob of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place each breaded chicken roll in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This searing step builds a beautiful golden crust that locks in moisture and adds irresistible flavor.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
After searing, transfer the chicken rolls to your prepared baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese inside is melty and bubbling. This final bake ensures everything comes together perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
To add that extra touch of freshness and vibrance, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over your Chicken Cordon Bleu before serving. A lemon wedge on the side can also provide a zesty lift that brightens the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, simple sides like steamed green beans, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. These accompaniments complement the richness of the chicken without overpowering its delicate cheese and ham layers.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, slice each chicken roll into medallions to showcase the beautiful spiral of ham and melted cheese. Arrange the slices on a platter with colorful veggies or a swirl of mustard sauce. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter at any dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The breading might soften slightly, but the flavors remain just as delightful for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag, where they will keep well for up to two months. This makes it convenient to have a ready-to-bake dinner on hand whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
To reheat leftover chicken cordon bleu, place it on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and crispy again, usually about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, Gruyère, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar can add wonderful twists. Just pick a cheese that melts well and complements the ham.
What can I substitute for ham if I want a different flavor?
If ham isn’t your favorite, try prosciutto for a saltier, thinner option or smoked turkey for a milder taste. These alternatives still provide that savory meatiness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Yes, pounding the chicken to an even thickness is key. It ensures the chicken cooks evenly and makes it easier to roll without tearing, giving you that perfect cordon bleu shape.
Can I bake the chicken without searing first?
You can skip searing to simplify the process, but the crust won’t be as golden or crisp. Searing adds a lovely texture and deeper flavor, so it’s worth the extra step if you have the time.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be melted and the chicken should be juicy with no pink inside for perfect, safe cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe truly takes the art of home cooking to a delightful new level. It’s approachable, satisfying, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite that brings warmth and smiles to every meal.
Print
Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Description
This Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe offers a delicious and classic dish featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, breaded and baked to golden perfection. It combines a crispy exterior with a gooey, flavorful center, perfect for a satisfying family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Cooking
- Olive oil or butter for cooking (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts between plastic wrap until they are about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking, then season both sides with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Add Filling and Roll: Place two slices of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken breast, then roll the chicken tightly around the filling. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to hold the shape during cooking.
- Set up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes—one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs. This will help with a thorough and even breading process.
- Bread the Chicken Rolls: Dredge each chicken roll first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with breadcrumbs to form a crispy, golden crust after cooking.
- Sear the Rolls: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sear the breaded chicken rolls for about 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Bake to Finish: Transfer the seared chicken rolls to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted inside.
Notes
- Be sure to pound the chicken evenly to avoid undercooked thick areas.
- Use toothpicks to secure the rolls and prevent the filling from spilling during cooking.
- To make it lower fat, use olive oil spray for searing instead of butter or oil.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to retain juices.
- Breadcrumbs can be seasoned with herbs or Parmesan for added flavor.
