Crispy breaded chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, pan-fried and baked until perfect. Served with cheesy Dijon sauce. Serves 4, ready in 70 minutes.
A perfect combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and savory ham, this Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers restaurant-quality elegance in every bite. The crispy breaded exterior gives way to reveal perfectly cooked chicken wrapped around Swiss cheese and ham, creating a dish that's both impressive and comforting.
During my culinary training in France, mastering Cordon Bleu became a passion. The first time I achieved that perfect golden crust with molten cheese inside, I knew I'd discovered something special.
Essential Ingredients Guide
Chicken Breasts: Choose uniform, boneless pieces for even cooking
Swiss Cheese: Traditional choice for optimal melting
Ham: High-quality, thinly sliced for proper rolling
Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates superior crispy coating
Fresh Herbs: Enhance both flavor and presentation
Dijon Mustard: Adds depth to the sauce
Creating Perfect Cordon Bleu
Prepare The Chicken
Pound breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
Layer With Care
Arrange cheese and ham strategically for rolling.
Master The Roll
Create tight cylinder securing with toothpicks.
Coat With Precision
Follow proper breading sequence for best results.
Finish With Skill
Monitor cooking temperature for perfect doneness.
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My French instructor always said, 'Patience makes perfect Cordon Bleu.' After countless preparations, this wisdom proves true every time.
Enhance Your Experience
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light mixed green salad. For special occasions, add the classic Dijon cream sauce.
Creative Variations
Transform this dish by using different cheese varieties, incorporating prosciutto instead of ham, or adding fresh herbs to the filling. For a lighter version, try baking instead of frying.
Storage Success
Store uncooked, breaded rolls for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Once cooked, enjoy within two days, reheating gently in the oven.
Through years of perfecting this recipe, I've discovered that success lies in attention to detail. When each step is executed with care, the result is a dish that brings French elegance to any table.
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Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Roll and bread the chicken up to 8 hours ahead, keep in the fridge. Cook just before serving.
→ Why is my coating falling off?
Make sure to chill the rolled chicken well and coat evenly. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.
→ Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, spray with oil and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. It won't be as golden but still delicious.
→ How do I know it's cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer - it should read 165°F at the thickest part.
→ Can I use different cheese?
Sure! Mozzarella or provolone work well for stuffing, and cheddar is great in the sauce.
Classic Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu
Golden-crispy chicken rolls stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, served with a rich cheesy Dijon sauce.
Pound chicken breasts between plastic wrap to 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Layer with Swiss cheese and ham, roll tightly, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30-60 minutes.
Step 02
Place flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned panko in separate bowls. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
Step 03
Coat each roll in flour, then egg, then panko. Fry in 350°F oil until golden brown all around, about 5 minutes.
Step 04
Transfer to baking sheet and bake 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 05
Make roux with butter and flour, add milk and seasonings. Simmer and stir in cheeses until smooth. Serve over chicken.
Notes
Can be prepped ahead and stored in fridge
For healthier version, bake instead of fry
Ensure even thickness when pounding for best results
Tools You'll Need
Meat mallet
Plastic wrap
Large frying pan
Baking sheet
Three shallow bowls
Meat thermometer
Saucepan
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
Dairy (cheese, milk)
Wheat (flour, breadcrumbs)
Eggs
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.