Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is like a warm hug on a plate, combining juicy chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese into one delicious package. Imagine biting into a crispy crust that gives way to tender meat oozing with melted goodness—it’s pure culinary bliss. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This dish takes me back to family dinners where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of baked chicken made our mouths water. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu never fails to impress, delivering a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip this up even after a long day.
- With flavors that meld beautifully together, it’s comfort food at its finest.
- Visually stunning when plated, it elevates any dinner table setting.
- What’s more, it’s versatile enough to serve with various sides or on its own!
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces are ideal. Choose plump breasts for juiciness.
- Ham Slices: Use thinly sliced ham, like prosciutto or deli ham, for that savory kick.
- Swiss Cheese: Opt for good-quality Swiss cheese; it melts beautifully and adds creamy flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping, panko breadcrumbs work great as they stay crispier.
- Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together and add moisture.
For the Sauce:
- Mustard: A dash of Dijon mustard adds zesty flair and balances the richness of the cheese.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray—no one likes their chicken stuck!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet until about half an inch thick. This tenderizes the meat and makes it easier to roll up later.
Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
Lay slices of ham and Swiss cheese over each flattened chicken breast. Be generous—this is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Roll It Up
Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly from one end to the other. Secure them with toothpicks if necessary to keep all that cheesy goodness inside.
Step 5: Bread It
Set up a breading station: whisk eggs in one bowl and place breadcrumbs in another. Dip each rolled chicken into the egg mixture first, then coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
Step 6: Bake
Arrange the rolled chicken in your prepared baking dish and pop it into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now you’re ready to impress your friends or treat yourself because you deserve it! Serve Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu alongside roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal you’ll always want seconds of. Enjoy every bite of this delightful fusion of flavors!
You Must Know
- This amazing baked chicken cordon bleu combines crispy chicken with gooey cheese and savory ham, creating a dish that feels fancy yet is easy to prepare.
- The delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it a hit at any dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the chicken: pound it thin, then layer with ham and cheese before rolling. While you’re baking, whip up a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for balance. chicken salad for picnics Timing is key for achieving that perfect golden crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or even veggies for a vegetarian delight. Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or Gouda for a flavor twist. Spice it up with herbs like thyme or rosemary to add an aromatic punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that they stay crispy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To create the ultimate baked chicken cordon bleu, ensure your chicken is pounded evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t rush the breading process; let it set before baking for better crunch.
- Finally, always preheat your oven to achieve that golden perfection.
I remember the first time I made baked chicken cordon bleu for my family. They devoured it and declared me a culinary genius—now I can’t cook anything else without them expecting Michelin-star quality!
FAQs :
What is Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that consists of chicken breasts filled with ham and Swiss cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and baked to perfection. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many. tender chicken breast recipes The baking method results in a healthier version compared to the traditional fried approach, while still delivering a crispy exterior and tender, juicy filling. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How can I customize my Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
You can customize your Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu by experimenting with different types of cheese or meats. For instance, try using provolone instead of Swiss or turkey instead of ham for a lighter option. You can also add herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. Additionally, consider serving it with various sauces such as mustard or garlic aioli to enhance the overall taste of your dish. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe.
Can I make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish as instructed but do not bake it right away. Cover the assembled chicken with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a nutritious touch, while garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and heartiness. garlic parmesan chicken recipe For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. These accompaniments balance out the richness of the chicken dish, creating a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu :
In conclusion, Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is an easy yet impressive dish that combines savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese within tender chicken breasts. By baking instead of frying, you achieve a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. quick chicken stir fry With customization options available and perfect side pairings to enhance your meal, this recipe is sure to delight family and friends alike. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic favorite!
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, delivering an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite. Impress your family and friends with this delightful classic that will quickly become a staple at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz thinly sliced ham (like prosciutto or deli ham)
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and pound to about half an inch thick.
- Layer ham and Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Set up a breading station: whisk eggs in one bowl and place panko breadcrumbs in another. Dip each rolled chicken into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange the chicken rolls in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot, drizzled with Dijon mustard sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, mix herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumbs. - Substitute turkey for ham or experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or Gouda. - Pair with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.