This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a tasty treat you’ll love! It features juicy chicken stuffed with ham and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy coating.
And let’s talk about the Dijon sauce—it adds a little zing that makes each bite even better! I often serve it with mashed potatoes for a meal that’s simply delicious! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you need a change, try using turkey cutlets instead! They have a similar texture and work well with the stuffing.
Ham: Regular cooked ham is great, but you can substitute with prosciutto for a slightly different flavor. If you want to go meatless, use thin slices of grilled eggplant instead for a veggie twist.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully, but you can also use Gruyère or even provolone for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese will bring its unique taste!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the chicken its signature crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Rolls Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfect chicken rolls is to ensure they’re cooked through while remaining juicy. Here’s how:
- First, pound the chicken evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness. This helps the chicken cook uniformly.
- When searing, don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows for even browning. If your pan is small, work in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, the chicken should feel firm when pressed and juices should run clear.
For extra juicy chicken, consider letting it rest for a few minutes after baking, which helps keep the moisture in.
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, expect about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a special dinner or any night you want something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and either lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking!
2. Flatten the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them until they’re about 1/4-inch thick. This makes them easier to roll and cook evenly.
3. Season Your Chicken:
Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on both sides of your flattened chicken breasts. This will enhance the flavor of your dish!
4. Add the Filling:
Lay one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on each chicken breast. Roll them up tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the ends.
5. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, arrange your breading materials: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This will allow for easy coating!
6. Coat the Chicken Rolls:
Take each chicken roll and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every part is well-coated for maximum crunch!
7. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken rolls into the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re a lovely golden brown.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Once seared, transfer the chicken rolls to your prepared baking dish. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, it’s time to whip up the sauce! In a small saucepan, mix together the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
10. Final Touches:
Once your chicken is done baking, remove any toothpicks. Plate the chicken rolls and generously drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the top.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can use Gruyère for a richer flavor or even provolone or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
How Do I Prevent the Chicken from Drying Out?
To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F (75°C) and consider letting it rest for a few minutes after baking to retain the juices.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken rolls a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to bake. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking them from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out. Enjoy!
