Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken stuffed with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese. Baked to crispy perfection and drizzled with a rich cheese sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The flavors meld beautifully, making this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy cheese sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this impressive dish without fuss.
• Versatile for Occasions: Great for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings, it suits any event perfectly.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the chicken in advance for easy cooking on busy nights.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce effectively, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Plastic wrap
• Shallow bowls (3)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: For evenly pounding chicken, ensuring tender results.
• Shallow bowls: Ideal for coating the chicken with flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
• Saucepan: Necessary for making the creamy cheese sauce that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (each split into 3 thin slices)
• 8 slices ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (220g) Panko breadcrumbs

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (473ml) whole milk
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard paste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (55g) grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated sharp cheddar cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice and Pound: Split each chicken breast into 3 thin slices. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
2. Stuff and Roll: Lay out 3 pounded chicken slices on plastic wrap. Season with salt and pepper. Layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top. Roll tightly like a jellyroll, wrapping them in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends to secure.
3. Chill: Place the rolled chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to help them hold their shape.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Flour: In a shallow bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roll the chicken roulades in the flour to coat.
2. Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
3. Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow plate, spread out the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper. Roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the coated chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spray generously with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter. Add flour, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; simmer briefly. Finally, add Parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Serve

Let baked chicken cool for around 10 minutes before slicing into pinwheels. Drizzle with rich cheese sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a luxurious dish that can impress family and friends alike. Serving it correctly can elevate the dining experience and make every meal feel special.

Classic Plating

• Use a large, white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the chicken and cheese sauce.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color.

Accompanying Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well.
• This adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese sauce.

Pair with Wine

• A glass of Chardonnay complements the flavors nicely.
• The crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce.

Family Style Serving

• Serve in a large casserole dish for a communal feel.
• Allow guests to help themselves, creating a relaxed dining atmosphere.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers.
• This makes for an excellent appetizer at gatherings.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

To achieve the best results when making Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Thin Chicken Slices: Thin slices make rolling easier and ensure even cooking throughout.
• Chill Before Cooking: Chilling helps the roulades hold their shape, preventing them from unraveling during baking.
• Generous Coating: Ensure each chicken roll is fully coated in breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy texture.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the baked chicken to cool for 10 minutes helps retain moisture when slicing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese in your sauce for varied flavors; mozzarella or gouda can be great additions.
• Make Ahead: Prepare stuffed chicken rolls in advance and refrigerate or freeze them to save time on busy days.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Choosing side dishes that complement Chicken Cordon Bleu is essential for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and freshness while being easy to prepare.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
4. Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf brings additional flavor and texture to your plate.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach pairs well by enhancing the overall creaminess of the meal.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances savory flavors beautifully.
7. Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad provides crispness and tanginess that complements the cheese sauce perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Not Pounding the Chicken Enough: If the chicken is not pounded thinly, it will be difficult to roll and cook evenly. Ensure each piece is about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for best results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Failing to chill the rolled chicken can cause it to unravel while cooking. Always refrigerate the rolls for at least 1-2 hours before baking.
• Inadequate Coating: A light breadcrumb coating can lead to a soggy texture. Make sure the chicken is generously coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: It’s crucial to monitor cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Forgetting Seasoning: Neglecting to season each layer of the chicken can result in bland flavors. Be sure to season both the chicken and the breadcrumbs.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the cheese sauce separate from the chicken if possible.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Freeze unbaked chicken rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 1 month.
• Fully baked chicken can be frozen for up to a month as well.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in increments of 1 minute, checking frequently, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat for about 5-10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce?

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a classic dish featuring chicken breasts filled with ham and Swiss cheese, breaded, baked, and topped with a creamy cheese sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

How do I prevent my Chicken Cordon Bleu from being dry?

To prevent dryness, ensure that you do not overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them or freeze them for later use.

What should I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

This dish pairs well with simple sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize the filling or cheese sauce to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it might just become your new favorite!

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