There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in crispy, golden breadcrumbs, revealing juicy ham and melted cheese with every slice. It’s a dish that promises to elevate any dinner table, turning an ordinary weeknight into an extraordinary culinary experience. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes.
I remember the first time I attempted this masterpiece. My friends were skeptical, and let’s just say my cooking skills back then were more “experimental” than “chef-worthy.” But when that cheesy goodness came out of the oven, all doubts vanished, and my kitchen transformed into a five-star restaurant—at least in our minds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is incredibly easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or family
- The combination of flavors—savory chicken, rich ham, and gooey cheese—is simply irresistible
- Visually stunning with its golden crust, this dish is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings
Cooking this dish once led my friend to declare it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is saying something coming from him!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts for a satisfying meal; they should be fresh and plump.
- Sliced Ham: Use your favorite deli ham; it brings savory richness that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Swiss Cheese: Opt for good-quality Swiss cheese; it melts perfectly and adds delightful flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor; they create a crispy outer layer that everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan boosts flavor and gives the crust an enticing crunch.
- Eggs: You’ll need eggs for coating; they help breadcrumbs stick like glue to our tasty chicken parcels.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors without stealing the spotlight.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick spray to prevent any sticky situations later on.
Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick; this ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Add Filling: Lay slices of ham and Swiss cheese on top of each flattened chicken breast. Be generous but leave some edges clear so you can roll them up without spilling out their delicious contents.
Roll It Up: Starting from one end, roll each chicken breast tightly around the filling. Secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine; no one wants a surprise burst of cheese during dinner!
Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station: dip each rolled chicken piece in beaten eggs first, then coat thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for extra crunch.
Bake to Perfection: Arrange your prepared rolls in a greased baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach golden brown perfection and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Now you can plate these beauties! Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain all those glorious juices inside while preventing cheese explosions—because no one wants that mess!
Enjoy your homemade Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu with sides like roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes that complement its scrumptiousness perfectly!
You Must Know
- Mastering Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu can elevate your dinner parties and impress guests
- The satisfying crunch of the crust paired with gooey cheese is a crowd-pleaser
- This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, prepare the chicken and bread crumbs, ensuring everything is ready for smooth cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Swiss cheese for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. You can also add spinach or mushrooms inside for an extra twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a crispier crust, try double-breading the chicken
- This adds texture and flavor
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste
- Always pound chicken breasts to ensure even cooking throughout
Cooking Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu always reminds me of my cousin’s wedding where I attempted this dish for the first time. Their compliments still warm my heart!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, but thaw them completely before preparing to ensure even cooking.
What side dishes go best with Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like crushed rice cereal or almond flour.
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb crust. This gourmet meal elevates any dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its irresistible flavors and visually stunning presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Layer ham and Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, leaving edges clear.
- Roll each breast tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Dip each roll in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
- Arrange in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approximately 160g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For added flavor, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss. Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container for up to three days.
