If you are craving a special yet surprisingly easy-to-make dish that will impress everyone at the table, then you absolutely need to try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. This classic combination of juicy chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy, golden crust, is pure comfort food bliss. From the first crunchy bite to the gooey cheese center, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and a touch of elegance that makes it perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Trust me, once you master this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role, melding together to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tender chicken to the crunchy coating and tangy sauce, every component enhances the dish in its own way.
- 8 thin slices ham: Provides a salty, savory layer that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded): Melts beautifully inside, adding a creamy, nutty richness.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds): The tender base of this dish, pounded thin for easy rolling.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (crushed, or substitute breadcrumbs): Creates the irresistible crispy outer coating.
- 6 Tablespoons butter (melted): Helps the coating brown perfectly and stay crunchy.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the tangy dipping sauce.
- 1-2 teaspoons yellow mustard (to taste): Adds a bright, zingy kick that pairs wonderfully with the richness.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well later on. Carefully cut each chicken breast horizontally in half, giving you two thinner halves from each breast. Then, sandwich each piece between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re evenly thin—but be gentle so the meat stays intact. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes rolling the filling much easier.
Step 2: Layer the Ham and Cheese
On each flattened chicken piece, lay down a slice of ham and a generous handful of Swiss cheese. These layers bring bold flavor and that luscious melted center everyone loves. Once layered, roll the chicken tightly, gently tucking the sides inwards to keep the filling secure inside a neat bundle.
Step 3: Wrap and Chill
Wrap each chicken roll snugly in plastic wrap—twisting the ends like a candy wrapper—to create firm little bundles. Refrigerate these wrapped pieces for at least 30 minutes, or up to one full day. This chilling step is key; it helps the rolls hold their shape during baking so that the beautiful layers stay intact and the cheese doesn’t run out.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Unwrap the chilled chicken rolls and season them evenly with salt and pepper. Crush the corn flakes into fine crumbs using a food processor, then spread them out in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, melt the butter—it’s what’ll give you that golden, crispy crust that makes this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken roll first into the melted butter, coating all sides, then into the corn flake crumbs. Press the crumbs gently onto the surface to ensure they stick well. Place the coated rolls on a greased baking sheet, ready to become beautifully golden in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the chicken bundles for about 30 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for the chicken, checking with a meat thermometer if possible. The outside should be crisp and golden while the inside stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 7: Whip Up the Sauce
While the chicken bakes, mix together the mayonnaise and yellow mustard in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the mustard amount to your liking—some like a bit more tang, others prefer it milder. This simple, creamy sauce perfectly complements the flavors and crispy texture of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can add a beautiful touch and fresh contrast to the rich Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
Classic side dishes like buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad are wonderful companions. They balance the richness of the chicken while keeping the plate vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want to jazz up presentation, slice the chicken rolls into medallions to reveal the beautiful ham and cheese spiral inside. Arrange them on a platter with a drizzle of your mustard mayo sauce and a few lemon wedges for an elegant, restaurant-worthy look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It stays delicious and maintains good texture if you reheat it gently.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each cooked chicken roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it handy to have on hand for quick meals or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to preserve the crispy coating. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
Absolutely! Swiss cheese is traditional for its meltability and mild flavor, but Gruyere or mozzarella also work wonderfully. Just pick a cheese that melts well and adds a nice flavor.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken thin?
Yes, pounding the chicken thin helps it cook evenly and makes wrapping the ham and cheese easier. Without pounding, the chicken might not cook through properly or could be too thick to roll neatly.
Can I bake this recipe instead of frying?
This recipe is designed to be baked with a crunchy cornflake coating, which gives it a lovely crispness without the mess of frying. Baking also tends to be healthier and just as delicious!
How long does it take to prepare the Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, plus chilling time, and then around 30 minutes baking. Altogether, it takes roughly 45 minutes, making it a great option for a special yet manageable meal.
What can I substitute for corn flakes in the coating?
If you don’t have corn flakes, plain breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed crackers are excellent alternatives that still provide that crunchy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels fancy but comes together with surprising ease, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is the answer. It’s a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into something memorable and comforting. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner that’s perfect for any occasion!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish featuring tender chicken breasts wrapped with ham and Swiss cheese, coated in crunchy cornflake crumbs, and baked to golden perfection. Served with a tangy mayo-mustard sauce, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures ideal for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Rolls
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 8 thin slices ham
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal, crushed (or substitute breadcrumbs)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons yellow mustard, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to cut each chicken breast in half horizontally, creating two thinner halves. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin until evenly thin, being careful not to tear the meat.
- Assemble the rolls: On each flattened chicken piece, place a slice of ham and a handful of shredded Swiss cheese. Roll the chicken tightly, tucking in the sides slightly to enclose the filling, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, forming a tootsie-roll shape.
- Chill the rolls: Refrigerate the wrapped chicken bundles for at least 30 minutes or up to one day to help maintain their shape during cooking.
- Preheat and prepare coating: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unwrap the chicken rolls, season them with salt and pepper. Pulse the cornflakes in a food processor until fine crumbs form and place them in a shallow dish. Melt the butter in another shallow dish.
- Coat the rolls: Dip each chicken roll first into the melted butter, then roll it in the crushed cornflake crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Arrange the coated rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the center of the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and yellow mustard. Adjust the mustard to your taste preference for tanginess.
- Serve: Serve the baked Chicken Cordon Bleu warm, accompanied by the prepared mayo-mustard sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a crispier coating, you can substitute crushed cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the chicken rolls are tightly wrapped and chilled to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately and avoid overcooking.
- This recipe can be prepped a day ahead to save time on cooking day.
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the melted butter with herbs like thyme or garlic before coating.
