I have been making chicken cordon bleu for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated in France, where it’s known as ‘cordon bleu,’ which means ‘blue ribbon.’
I love how the combination of chicken breast, ham, and cheese creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The key to making this recipe is to pound the chicken breast thin so that it cooks evenly.
I’ve tried making it with different types of cheese, but Swiss is my favorite because of its creamy texture and mild flavor. When I’m feeling fancy, I like to serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.
But honestly, it’s just as good on a weeknight when served with some steamed vegetables and a side of rice. My kids love helping me make the stuffing by layering the ham and cheese inside the chicken breast.
It’s a fun and interactive way to get them involved in cooking dinner. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to use up leftover ham?
I’ve made this recipe for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but it’s also a staple in our household for everyday meals.
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
4.8 from 842 votes
A golden, crispy chicken breast stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then baked to perfection. This classic dish is surprisingly simple to make at home and delivers a rich, savory flavor in every bite.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
4 slices deli ham
4 slices Swiss cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3Lay one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each pounded chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
4Roll the chicken tightly from one short end, tucking in the sides as you go, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
7Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
8Sear the chicken rolls for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown, turning carefully with tongs.
9The crust should be crispy and deeply browned.
10Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
11The breading will be golden and the cheese will be melted and bubbly.
12Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
13Remove any toothpicks, then slice each roll into medallions and serve warm.
Tips: For extra flavor, add a thin layer of Dijon mustard to the chicken before adding the ham. If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the chicken without searing, but the crust will be less crispy. Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Works
I always recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freezing them for up to two months.
When reheating cordon bleu, I like to place it on top of some sliced onions or bell peppers to add extra flavor.
And if you’re looking for ways to serve this dish beyond just plating it on its own, consider pairing it with some roasted vegetables or a side salad for added texture and nutrition.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cordon Bleu
Q: What is cordon bleu?
A: Cordon bleu is a dish that originated in France, where it’s known for its rich flavors and elegant presentation. It typically consists of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried or baked until golden brown.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese instead of Swiss?
A: While Swiss is traditional, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta if you prefer a tangier flavor.
Q: Do I need to pound the chicken breast thin?
A: Pounding the chicken breast thin helps it cook evenly and prevents the meat from being too thick in the center. You can use a meat mallet or the back of a heavy knife to achieve this.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and cook the cordon bleu just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Is cordon bleu suitable for vegetarians?
A: Unfortunately, no – this recipe includes chicken breast, ham, and cheese, making it unsuitable for vegetarians. However, you could adapt the recipe to use vegetarian alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
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