This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a treat! It’s made with tender chicken, flavorful ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating.
The Dijon sauce adds a tasty kick that everyone will love. Trust me, you’ll want to make this dish again and again—it’s just that good! 🍗😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for rolling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with turkey cutlets.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic Cordon Bleu taste. If Swiss isn’t available, you could use mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor.
Ham: I recommend using deli-style cooked ham for its convenience. You can substitute it with turkey ham or cooked bacon for a different twist.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs make the chicken extra crispy. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too—just be aware they may not be as crunchy!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Rolls Stay Together While Cooking?
Keeping your chicken rolls intact can be tricky. Here are some tips to help:
- Make sure you pound the chicken thin; this helps it roll easily.
- Secure the rolls with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
- When frying, do not overcrowd the pan; this allows even cooking and helps them maintain their shape.
By following these tips, you’ll have beautifully rolled and perfectly cooked chicken Cordon Bleu! Enjoy!🍗✨
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dijon Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional for texture)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and around 30-35 minutes cooking time, making it a total of about 50 minutes. You’ll spend some time rolling and frying the chicken, and while it bakes, you can whip up the tangy Dijon sauce. Perfect for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly and roll nicely.
2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken breast. Roll each one tightly, tucking the sides in as you go. If you need to, secure them with toothpicks to keep them from unrolling.
3. Breading the Chicken:
In three shallow dishes, prepare your dredging stations: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. First, season the chicken rolls with salt and pepper. Then, roll each piece in the flour, dip it in the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Frying Time:
Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken rolls until they are golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This gives them that crispy, delicious outer layer!
5. Baking the Chicken:
Once browned, transfer the chicken rolls to a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
6. Making the Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken bakes, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, gently simmer the heavy cream over medium heat. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard (if you’re using it), and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Keep it warm until you’re ready to serve.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the chicken is ready, carefully remove the toothpicks. You can slice the chicken if you like, or serve the whole rolls. Drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the top, and enjoy your crispy, creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well for that creamy texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour for dredging. For the breadcrumbs, look for gluten-free panko or make your own from gluten-free bread. Enjoy without worry!
Can I Prepare the Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls, bread them, and keep them in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight before frying and baking them. Just be sure to cook them the same day for the best taste and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or skillet to maintain the crispiness, or you can microwave them, but be aware that the coating may lose some crunch.
