Cordon Bleu Chicken
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that brings the flavors of French cuisine to your dining table. This recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with Black Forest ham and Swiss Gruyere cheese, all wrapped in a crispy panko coating. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this meal combines simplicity with gourmet appeal, making it a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory ham and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste that delights everyone.
- Impressive Presentation: When sliced, the layers reveal beautiful colors, making it perfect for impressing guests.
- Versatile Meal: Great for weeknight dinners or festive occasions; this dish fits any setting effortlessly.
- Homemade Sauce: The Dijon cream sauce adds a rich finishing touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cordon Bleu Chicken successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- meat mallet
- rimmed baking sheet
- baking rack
- large skillet
- shallow dishes (for breading and washing)
- whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Meat Mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
- Rimmed Baking Sheet: Prevents spills while baking and keeps your oven clean.
- Shallow Dishes: Ideal for easy coating of the chicken with Dijon wash and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
Chicken & Ham
- 4 medium chicken breasts (6-7 oz. each)
- 8 slices (12 ounces) deli cut Black Forest ham (like Boars Head)
Cheese & Breading
- 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
- toothpicks
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 tsp EACH dried parsley, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder
- 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
Broth & Cream Mixture
- 1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk or half and half mixed with 1 TBS cornstarch)
Final Touches
- Fresh parsley for garnish if desired
How to Make Cordon Bleu Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by placing a baking rack on top and lightly spraying it with cooking spray. Set it aside.
Step 2: Flatten Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use the flat side of a meat mallet or the side of a can to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4-inch. This helps ensure they cook evenly.
Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
Take two slices of ham and lay them over each chicken breast. Next, place a heaping 1/4 cup of shredded cheese down the center of the ham while leaving about a 1/2-inch border around all sides.
Step 4: Roll Chicken
Starting at the smaller end of each chicken breast, tightly roll them up while folding the ham over the cheese at one end to prevent it from oozing out. Secure each roll with toothpicks.
Step 5: Panko Breading
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt together unsalted butter and olive oil. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir until they are golden brown. Transfer to a shallow dish, let cool briefly, then mix in Parmesan and spices.
Step 6: Dijon Wash
In another shallow dish, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil. Take one chicken roll at a time and brush it with the Dijon mixture until evenly coated.
Step 7: Bread Chicken
Dip each roll into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing crumbs onto all sides as needed. Place them on the prepared baking rack with some space between them.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer—this usually takes about 30-35 minutes. Check during the last part of cooking; cover with foil if they are browning too quickly.
Step 9: Dijon Cream Sauce
While your chicken bakes, whisk together all ingredients for the sauce in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer until thickened slightly.
Step 10: Serve
Once baked, allow your Cordon Bleu Chicken to rest for about five minutes before slicing. Serve with warmed Dijon cream sauce drizzled over top; garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that deserves to be served in style. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, how you present and accompany this dish can elevate the dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a variety of greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad provide a nice contrast to the flavors of Cordon Bleu Chicken.
Offer with Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for a simple yet flavorful side.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic add color and freshness to your plate.
Serve with Flavorful Sauces
- Dijon Cream Sauce: Drizzling extra sauce over your sliced chicken enhances its flavor profile.
- Chimichurri Sauce: This herby sauce adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the dish beautifully.
Accompany with Starches
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs offers a mild flavor that complements rather than competes.
How to Perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken
Perfecting your Cordon Bleu Chicken takes practice, but these tips will help ensure you achieve delicious results every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensuring your chicken and cheese are fresh enhances the flavors significantly.
- Pound Evenly: Flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly and prevents dryness.
- Secure Properly: Make sure to tightly roll and secure each chicken breast with toothpicks to keep the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safety without overcooking.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing helps retain juices, keeping it moist.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try different cheeses or additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cordon Bleu Chicken
To round out your meal, consider serving Cordon Bleu Chicken with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting touch alongside your rich main dish.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta topped with Parmesan creates a luxurious base that contrasts nicely with the chicken’s texture.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes balances well against savory flavors.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds freshness and color to your plate while being easy to prepare.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad mixed with veggies can provide a hearty yet light option beside the chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: For those who love comfort food, creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser that pairs well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cordon Bleu Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken beyond 160°F makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Skipping the Pounding Step: Not flattening the chicken results in uneven cooking. Always pound the breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Subpar cheese affects flavor and texture. Opt for freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere for the best results.
- Ignoring the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken too soon lets juices escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
- Not Securing Properly: If rolls aren’t secured well, they may unfurl during cooking. Use toothpicks generously to keep everything in place.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Cordon Bleu Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a bit of oil until warm, around 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cordon Bleu Chicken:
How Do You Make Chicken Cordon Bleu?
To make Cordon Bleu Chicken, flatten chicken breasts, layer them with ham and cheese, roll tightly, bread, and bake until golden brown.
Can I Use Different Cheeses for Cordon Bleu Chicken?
Yes! While Swiss Gruyere is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for different flavors.
What Can I Serve with Cordon Bleu Chicken?
Cordon Bleu Chicken pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Is Cordon Bleu Chicken Healthy?
While it’s indulgent due to the cheese and ham, you can lighten it by using less cheese or baking instead of frying.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Cordon Bleu Chicken?
Cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Final Thoughts
Cordon Bleu Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different meats or cheeses based on your preference. This recipe brings comfort and joy to any dinner table—give it a try!
Cordon Bleu Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that delivers the essence of French cuisine right to your table. This recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory Black Forest ham and creamy Swiss Gruyere cheese, all encased in a crunchy panko coating. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this dish balances simplicity and gourmet appeal, making it a hit with both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The addition of a rich Dijon cream sauce elevates the flavors, ensuring a memorable meal experience.
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 8 slices Black Forest ham
- 1 1/4 cups Swiss Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with a rack.
- Flatten each chicken breast between plastic wrap using a meat mallet until about 1/4-inch thick.
- Layer two slices of ham and 1/4 cup cheese on each breast, roll tightly, and secure with toothpicks.
- Mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs in a skillet until golden brown; let cool briefly.
- Brush each chicken roll with a mixture of Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil before coating in the breadcrumb mix.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
- For the sauce, combine broth, cornstarch, and cream in a saucepan; simmer until thickened.
- Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
