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A Classic and Elegant Dish with a Savory, Cheesy Filling!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe Category: Main Dish
Recipe Cuisine: French
Aggregate Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5 from 190 reviews)
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken breasts, salty ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all breaded and baked to golden perfection. It’s an elegant meal perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight treat. The crispy exterior gives way to a cheesy, savory surprise inside that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). To prepare the chicken, place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound the chicken to an even thickness using a meat mallet (about 1/2 inch thick). Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each chicken breast (optional). Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each breast. Carefully fold the chicken around the ham and cheese, securing it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Step 6: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and discard the toothpicks or twine. Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle with the creamy mustard sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Pro Tips
- Chicken Variations: You can use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or cheddar, for a twist on the classic flavor.
- Extra Crunch: If you prefer a crunchier crust, double-coat the chicken in flour and breadcrumbs before frying.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken breasts up to a day in advance, bread them, and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before baking. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.
Can I make this without the sauce?
While the sauce adds a delicious creamy element, you can skip it for a lighter version of the dish.
Keywords
chicken cordon bleu, classic chicken cordon bleu, easy chicken cordon bleu, homemade chicken cordon bleu, baked chicken cordon bleu, stuffed chicken recipes, French chicken recipes
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