Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all wrapped 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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy Dijon sauce with juicy chicken and cheese creates a flavor explosion.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for serving guests, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night at home.
• Easy to Customize: Switch up the cheese or try different sauces to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the chicken rolls in advance for easy cooking later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu seamlessly, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Deep pan for frying
• Three bowls for breading setup
• Whisk and saucepan for sauce preparation

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps pound the chicken evenly for tender results.
• Deep pan: Allows optimal frying space ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly in the sauce.

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

Pin

How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure each breast is coated evenly. Place one chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound it to about ½ inch (1 cm) thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Remove the plastic wrap from the pounded chicken. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese followed by 2 slices of ham. Add another layer of Swiss cheese and ham on top. Roll the chicken tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Twist and tie the ends to secure. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

Preheat a deep pan with 2 inches (5 cm) of oil to 325°F (170°C). Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll first in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Fry each chicken roll for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown. If needed, transfer them to a wire rack over a baking sheet and finish baking in a preheated oven at 325°F (170°C) until fully cooked.

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until soft. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice each chicken roll and drizzle generously with creamy Dijon sauce. Serve alongside fresh vegetables or mashed potatoes for a delightful meal experience.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that impresses at any dinner table. When serving this elegant meal, consider pairing it with complementary sides and garnishes to enhance the overall dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a fresh crunch and balances the creaminess of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a slightly bitter flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
• Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of Caesar dressing pair well with the savory elements of Chicken Cordon Bleu.

With Starches

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, perfect for soaking up the delicious Dijon sauce.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf enhances the dish without overpowering it.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Making Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu can be simple if you follow a few helpful tips. These tricks will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Prepare Ahead: Assemble your chicken rolls the night before. This allows flavors to meld and makes cooking easier on the day of serving.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil at 325°F (170°C) while frying. This ensures a crispy coating without burning.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality Swiss or Gruyère cheese for richer flavor and better melting properties.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying. This keeps it juicy when you cut into it.
• Experiment with Sauces: Don’t hesitate to try variations of sauces, like adding herbs or spices, for unique flavor profiles.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement the rich flavors of this dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a nutritious option that pairs well with cream-based meals.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds brightness and is packed with nutrients.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that complements the richness of the chicken.
5. Creamed Corn: Sweet creamed corn adds a delightful contrast to savory dishes like Chicken Cordon Bleu.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini slices offer a fresh, smoky flavor that balances out heavier elements on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before rolling.
• Not pounding the chicken: If you skip pounding the chicken breasts, they may cook unevenly. Ensure each breast is about ½ inch thick for consistent cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many rolls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy breading. Fry in batches for the best crispiness.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat. Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Forgetting to rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious dish featuring breaded chicken filled with ham and Swiss cheese, served with a rich Dijon sauce.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

How do I customize the filling?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or add spinach for extra flavor and nutrition in your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry or bake.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu makes great leftovers and is perfect for meal prepping, as it reheats well and retains its flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only elegant but also versatile, making it ideal for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize the cheese or add vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

---