Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken breasts with ham and cheese, all wrapped up and baked to perfection. This recipe takes the classic flavors and simplifies the process for an impressive meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices ham (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks (optional, for securing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness (about 1/4 inch). Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on each chicken breast.
- Roll up each chicken breast, starting from the shortest side, and secure with toothpicks if needed to hold the rolls together.
- Coat Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, mix flour and paprika. In another dish, place beaten eggs. In a third dish, spread breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken roll in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken rolls and cook until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Bake Chicken:
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks from chicken rolls before serving.
- Optionally, serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Cheese and Ham: Use thinly sliced Swiss cheese and ham to ensure even cooking and melting inside the chicken rolls.
- Breadcrumbs: For extra crispiness, you can mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped herbs.
- Variation: Instead of baking, you can also fry the chicken rolls until golden brown and finish in the oven for melting the cheese.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that impresses with its elegant presentation and delicious flavors. Perfect for a special dinner or any occasion, this recipe offers a comforting combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy creating this timeless favorite in your own kitchen!