This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that wraps tender chicken around ham and gooey cheese. It’s then breaded to perfection and baked until golden.
And let’s not forget that zesty Dijon sauce! It adds a nice kick that makes each bite even better. I love serving it with some veggies on the side—perfect combo! 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the stars of this dish. If you want a lighter option, you can use turkey breasts instead. Just adjust the cooking time since they can cook faster than chicken.
Ham: Use cooked ham for that classic flavor. If you’re looking for something different, turkey ham or even smoked turkey is a great alternative, especially for a healthier approach.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional in Cordon Bleu. For a different taste, try Gruyère, which adds a nuttier flavor, or mozzarella for a melty goodness. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well!
Bread Crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are an option if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Heavy Cream: If heavy cream is too rich for you, try half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like cashew or coconut cream, though the flavor may vary slightly.
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy and Creamy?
The key to crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu lies in the breading and cooking method. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- Pound the chicken thin and evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and remain tender.
- Use three stations for breading: flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This ensures a better coating, making it crispier.
- Heat the oil and butter properly before adding the chicken. It should sizzle when the chicken touches the pan, sealing in moisture.
- After browning, don’t skip the oven step! This ensures the chicken cooks through and the cheese melts beautifully without burning the crust.
For the creamy Dijon sauce, remember not to rush. Whisk constantly as you add cream to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Enjoy your delightful cooking experience with this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe!
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cooked ham (about 4 oz)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For The Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking, resulting in a total time of around 1 hour. Your dish will have beautifully crispy chicken with creamy cheese inside, all drizzled with a delicious Dijon sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by laying each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or a meat mallet, carefully pound each breast to about 1/2 inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Add Filling:
Place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on each flattened chicken breast. Roll the chicken tightly, tucking in the sides to fully enclose the filling. If needed, secure the rolls with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken roll first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture for that crisp outer layer.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken rolls and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden and crispy. This step locks in the moisture.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese has melted inside.
6. Make the Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, melt a tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for another minute. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the Dijon mustard and optional whole grain mustard, and let it simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked and rested, remove any toothpicks. Plate the chicken cordon bleu and generously drizzle with the creamy Dijon sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy your crispy, creamy, and flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu with that irresistible Dijon kick!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute with turkey breast or even pork loin for a different flavor. Just make sure the meat is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, Gruyère is a fantastic alternative with a similar melting quality and flavor. Mozzarella is also an option if you prefer a milder taste that’s extra gooey!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls in advance and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. Just bread them right before baking to ensure a crispy coating!
