Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 slices Swiss cheese; 4 slices deli ham; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; toothpicks for securing

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Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those show-stopping dishes that instantly transports you to cozy, candlelit bistros, yet it’s entirely doable in your own kitchen. Imagine biting into a crisp golden crust, then finding layers of savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese wrapped up in tender chicken. This recipe balances elegance with comfort and has a magical way of making any meal feel a little more special. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family gathering, or just treating yourself, Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers both impressive flavor and satisfying textures every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken Cordon Bleu lies in how just a handful of ingredients come together to create something unforgettable. Each element is easy to find but plays a distinct role in bringing out that signature flavor and texture.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect blank canvas, turning tender and juicy once pounded thin.
Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully inside the roll, bringing a rich, nutty taste in every bite.
Deli ham: Adds saltiness and extra savory flavor, pairing perfectly with chicken and cheese.
All-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and ensures a crispy, even crust after baking.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making sure each ingredient shines.
Black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that balances out the richness of the ham and cheese.
Large eggs: Binds the breadcrumb crust to the chicken, helping it stay put and get golden.
Breadcrumbs: The secret to that irresistible crunch on the outside.
Paprika: Infuses a touch of smoky warmth and gives the crust a gorgeous color.
Butter: Brushed on before baking, it helps crisp the breadcrumbs and adds buttery flavor.
Toothpicks: Essential for securing your rolled chicken so all those delicious layers stay tucked inside.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Pound the Chicken

Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap (or parchment paper) and gently pound them to a 1/4-inch thickness. This not only makes rolling easier, but also ensures even cooking, so the chicken stays juicy and tender from edge to edge.

Step 2: Layer the Ham and Cheese

Lay a slice of Swiss cheese and deli ham right in the center of each flattened chicken breast. This layering is classic—Swiss cheese melts wonderfully, and the ham adds that touch of savory depth that makes Chicken Cordon Bleu so irresistible.

Step 3: Roll and Secure

Tightly roll up each chicken breast, starting from the short end and tucking in the sides as you go. Secure each roll with a few toothpicks to keep everything snug inside. Don’t worry if they look a little rustic—the flavor more than makes up for it!

Step 4: Coat the Rolls

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, salt, and black pepper; another with the beaten eggs; and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika. Dredge each chicken roll first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This triple coating is the secret to that golden, crispy crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your breaded chicken rolls seam side down in a greased baking dish, then drizzle them with melted butter for extra richness. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is gorgeously golden. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving—a tiny step that makes a big difference!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Garnishes

A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika right before serving brightens up your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a pop of color and freshness. For an extra-special touch, a drizzle of creamy Dijon sauce or even a wedge of lemon can add a little zing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that let its flavors shine. Fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad are all fantastic options to round out your Chicken Cordon Bleu meal. For an elegant touch, try it with garlicky asparagus or roasted baby carrots.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice each Chicken Cordon Bleu roll on the diagonal to reveal those gorgeous swirls of ham and melting cheese within—it’s guaranteed to impress! You can also serve it atop a bed of herbed rice, or plate individual rolls with a little sauce painting on the plate for a restaurant-style experience right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Wrap each cooled roll tightly in foil or place in an airtight container; it will stay fresh for up to three days, ready to be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap uncooked chicken rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. You can bake straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If already cooked, let them cool first before wrapping and freezing to retain their crisp crust.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chicken Cordon Bleu in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the crust regains its crunch—about 15–20 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can soften the breadcrumb coating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?

Absolutely—while Swiss gives traditional flavor, you can swap in provolone, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for a fun twist. Just be sure the slices aren’t too thick so they melt evenly inside your Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Do I have to use toothpicks to secure the rolls?

Toothpicks are super helpful for keeping everything together while the chicken bakes, but you can also use kitchen twine or place the rolls seam side down and handle gently—it’s all about preference and what you have on hand.

What’s the best way to get an extra-crispy crust?

If you love extra crunch, try pan-frying the breaded chicken rolls in a little oil for two to three minutes per side before baking. This creates a sturdier, golden crust that’s especially satisfying in every bite of Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble and bread the rolls earlier in the day, then refrigerate until ready to bake. This is a huge time-saver for entertaining and ensures each roll comes out perfectly hot and fresh.

What sauce goes well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

A creamy Dijon mustard sauce is classic—it brings a tangy, herby kick that complements the richness of the chicken, ham, and cheese. But you could also serve with a simple white sauce, or even just a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Chicken Cordon Bleu at home, now’s the perfect time to discover why it’s such a beloved classic. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and comfort that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your new go-to for both special occasions and cozy weeknights alike!

Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with this easy-to-follow recipe. Tender chicken breasts stuffed with Swiss cheese and ham, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. A delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Rolls:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices deli ham

For Breading:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For Baking:

2 tablespoons butter, melted
toothpicks for securing

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness.
Assemble the rolls: Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on each breast, then roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Prepare breading stations: In separate bowls, place flour, salt, and pepper; beaten eggs; and breadcrumbs mixed with paprika.
Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs.
Bake: Place rolls in a baking dish, seam side down, drizzle with melted butter, and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Serve: Remove toothpicks before serving.