Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Topped with a creamy Dijon sauce, this elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner at home. The rich flavors and satisfying textures are sure to impress your family and guests alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
• Step 3: Prepare for Frying
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Pair with Fresh Vegetables
• Enhance with a Green Salad
• Serve with Starchy Sides
• Accompany with Bread
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?
• What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create this gourmet dish without fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with salads, vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Occasions: Ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings, making you the star of the show.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the rolls in advance for easy cooking later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools to ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Deep pan
• Cooking thermometer
• Three mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Flattens chicken breasts evenly for better cooking and rolling.
• Plastic wrap: Helps secure and shape the chicken rolls for even cooking.
• Deep pan: Ensures proper frying technique for crispy results.
• Cooking thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken reaches safe internal temperatures.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ lb ham, thinly sliced
• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs (100 g)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (480 mL)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (60 g)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (100 g)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to coat them evenly. Then:

1. Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Pound it to about ½ inch (1 cm) thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Now it’s time to build your delicious rolls. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the plastic wrap from the flattened chicken breast.
2. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the chicken breast.
3. Add 2 slices of ham followed by another layer of Swiss cheese and ham.
4. Roll the chicken tightly and wrap it back in plastic wrap. Twist and tie the ends securely.
5. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

Get your frying station ready by preheating a deep pan with 2 inches (5 cm) of oil to 325°F (170°C). Then:

1. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge each chicken roll in flour first, then dip it in egg before rolling in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Fry each chicken roll until they are golden brown:

1. Cook each roll for about 5 minutes per side.
2. If not yet at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), transfer them to a wire rack over a baking sheet.
3. Finish baking in a preheated oven at 325°F (170°C) until fully cooked.

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

While your chicken cooks, prepare the creamy sauce:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until soft.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until combined.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened and simmering.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice your crispy chicken rolls and drizzle generously with creamy Dijon sauce. Enjoy them alongside fresh vegetables or a crisp green salad!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can impress at any dinner gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and complements the dish beautifully.

Enhance with a Green Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and tangy dressing pairs perfectly with creamy flavors.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Serve with Starchy Sides

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up the delicious Dijon sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs adds texture and is great for soaking up the sauce.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes for a delightful addition, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm dinner rolls can complement the meal while adding an inviting touch to your table.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Getting the perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken breasts, quality Swiss cheese, and good-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many rolls at once can lower oil temperature. Cook in batches for even cooking.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure that chicken breasts are pounded evenly to cook uniformly and achieve tenderness.
• Monitor Internal Temperature: Always check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles in your creamy filling.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs well with various sides that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base that complements the rich chicken.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add color and crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh herbs makes for a nutritious side that pairs nicely with this entree.
4. Classic Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of chicken cordon bleu.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully against savory notes.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide brightness on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.
• Using cold chicken – Starting with cold chicken can result in uneven cooking. Be sure to let your chicken rolls sit at room temperature for a bit before frying or baking.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many rolls in the pan can lower the oil temperature and cause sogginess. Fry in batches for a crispy exterior.
• Not checking the internal temperature – Relying solely on cooking time may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting the sauce – Skipping the creamy Dijon sauce can leave your dish lacking depth. Make sure to prepare and serve it generously over the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low flame, adding a splash of water or broth as needed until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavors that still work well with this dish.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to fry or bake them.

What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by changing up the cheeses or using different meats like turkey or bacon. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this elegant recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!

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