Cordon Bleu Chicken

Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory ham and melted cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out not only for its delicious taste but also for its impressive presentation. With easy-to-follow steps, you can bring the elegance of classic French cuisine right to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Swiss cheese and Black Forest ham creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Impressive Presentation: When sliced, the juicy chicken reveals layers of ham and cheese, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
• Versatile Meal: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to creamy mashed potatoes, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this Cordon Bleu Chicken recipe with ease.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Cordon Bleu Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Baking sheet
• Baking rack
• Large skillet
• Shallow dishes (for breading)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness in chicken breasts, promoting uniform cooking.
• Baking rack: Allows hot air to circulate around the chicken while baking, resulting in a crispy exterior.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning panko breadcrumbs before coating the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Rolls

• 4 medium chicken breasts (6-7 oz. each)
• 8 slices (12 ounces) deli cut Black Forest ham (like Boars Head)
• 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
• toothpicks
• Fresh parsley for garnish if desired

For the Breading

• 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 tsp EACH dried parsley, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder
• 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper

For the Dijon Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 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)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper

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 aside.

Step 2: Flatten Chicken

• Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.
• Pound them to an even thickness of 1/4-inch using the flat side of a meat mallet or side of a can.

Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese

• Lay 2 slices of ham over each chicken breast.
• Evenly line about a heaping 1/4 cup shredded cheese down the center of the ham, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all sides.

Step 4: Roll Chicken

Starting at the smaller end of each breast:
Tightly roll up the chicken while folding the ham over the cheese at one end to prevent it from oozing out.
Secure each roll with toothpicks.

Step 5: Prepare Panko Breading

In a large skillet:
Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter in 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
Add panko breadcrumbs and stir until crumbs are golden brown.
Transfer breadcrumbs to a shallow dish once cooled. Stir in Parmesan and spices.

Step 6: Create Dijon Wash

In another shallow dish:
Whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
Working with one chicken roll at a time:
Dip each roll into this mixture and brush to coat evenly.

Step 7: Bread Chicken Rolls

Transfer each coated chicken roll to the breadcrumb mixture:
Press crumbs into all sides thoroughly.
Place them on prepared baking rack with space between each roll.

Step 8: Bake Chicken Rolls

Bake in preheated oven:
Cook until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit using an instant-read thermometer (about 30–35 minutes).
Keep an eye on them during last ten minutes; cover with foil if browning too much.
Let rest for five minutes before slicing.

Step 9: Make Dijon Cream Sauce

In a large saucepan:
Whisk together all sauce ingredients.
Bring to boil then reduce heat; let simmer until thickened slightly.

Step 10: Serve Your Cordon Bleu Chicken

Serve sliced rolls drizzled with Dijon cream sauce:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for extra color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade Cordon Bleu Chicken!

How to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken

Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, serving this flavorful chicken can elevate any occasion.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the richness of the chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness and balance to your meal.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with garlic and butter provides a simple yet flavorful base for the chicken.
• Creamy Fettuccine: Serve the chicken over fettuccine tossed in a light cream sauce for an indulgent touch.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until slightly crispy enhances the dish’s presentation.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping the focus on the chicken.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully, adding extra flavor with each bite.
• Spicy Aioli: For those who enjoy a kick, a spicy aioli can provide an exciting contrast to the savory chicken.

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How to Perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken

Perfecting Cordon Bleu Chicken requires attention to detail and technique. These tips will help you achieve that golden, crispy exterior with a juicy interior.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken breasts and high-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness to promote even cooking.
• Secure Properly: Use toothpicks wisely to hold everything together without letting filling escape during cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the internal temperature; removing it at 160°F ensures juiciness.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist slices.
• Make Cream Sauce Ahead: Prepare your Dijon cream sauce beforehand for convenience during serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cordon Bleu Chicken

Pairing Cordon Bleu Chicken with tasty sides enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the dish perfectly.
2. Seasoned Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa offers a healthy grain alternative that pairs well without overshadowing flavors.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich chicken.
4. French Fries: Crispy fries provide a classic comfort food option that delights both kids and adults alike.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of Cordon Bleu Chicken.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Slightly sweet roasted potatoes contrast nicely with savory flavors while adding color to your plate.
7. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans bring warmth and depth, making them an excellent side choice alongside this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cordon Bleu Chicken, it’s easy to make a few errors. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not Flattening the Chicken: Failing to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always flatten them to 1/4-inch thick for best results.
• Overstuffing the Filling: Using too much ham or cheese can cause the filling to ooze out during cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect roll.
• Skipping the Dijon Wash: Neglecting the Dijon wash can result in breadcrumbs that don’t adhere well. This step ensures a crispy coating that sticks beautifully.
• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always aim for an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes for juicy results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cordon Bleu Chicken

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Cordon Bleu Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm, checking often.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cordon Bleu Chicken.

How Do You Make Chicken Cordon Bleu?

To make Cordon Bleu Chicken, pound chicken breasts, layer with ham and cheese, roll tightly, bread, and bake until cooked through.

What Sauce Goes with Cordon Bleu Chicken?

A creamy Dijon sauce pairs beautifully with Cordon Bleu Chicken, enhancing its flavors and providing a rich complement.

Can I Make Cordon Bleu Chicken Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare it fully and refrigerate or freeze it before baking. Simply bake when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal.

Is Cordon Bleu Chicken Healthy?

Cordon Bleu Chicken can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Opt for leaner ham and control portion sizes for healthier choices.

What Can I Serve with Cordon Bleu Chicken?

Cordon Bleu Chicken pairs well with sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Cordon Bleu Chicken is not only delightful but also versatile, making it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or herbs. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!