This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious twist on a classic! Juicy chicken is stuffed with ham and cheese, then coated in a crunchy topping, giving each bite a mouthwatering crunch.
The creamy Dijon sauce adds a zesty kick that makes it even better! I love serving it with a side of veggies or potatoes. It’s a hit at dinner time, and the whole family loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for a lean and tender option. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully, adding extra juiciness.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese is perfect for melting. If you don’t have Swiss, Gruyere or even mozzarella can be great substitutes. They will give a nice melt without changing the overall taste too much.
Ham: Cooked ham is traditional, but you could use turkey ham or even prosciutto for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give a crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but consider toasting them for more crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an option if needed.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a zing to the sauce. You can substitute with whole grain mustard for more texture, or if you like milder flavors, yellow mustard is another choice.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Roll and Cooked Chicken?
Pounding the chicken helps it roll nicely and cook evenly. Here are some tips:
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/4 inch. Be careful not to tear it.
- When rolling the chicken, tuck the filling in carefully to prevent spilling. Secure with toothpicks firmly but not too tight.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken. This gives it a nice crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Easy Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyere)
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for frying
For the Easy Dijon Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for slight sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time and an additional 20-25 minutes of cooking time. So in total, plan for around an hour to prepare this delicious dish from start to finish—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is getting warm, gather your chicken breasts. Place each one between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This makes them easier to roll and helps them cook evenly.
2. Filling the Chicken:
On each flattened chicken breast, lay down a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. This will create a delicious, melty center once they are cooked. Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides to keep the filling from spilling out. If you like, you can secure the rolls with toothpicks for easier handling.
3. Setting Up the Breading Station:
Next, it’s time to set up for breading! In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour mixed with a little salt and pepper. In a second dish, beat the two large eggs. In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will give your chicken a lovely crunchy coating.
4. Coating the Chicken:
Take each chicken roll and start by rolling it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press down gently on the breadcrumbs to get an even coating. This crunchy exterior will be so satisfying!
5. Frying the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add in the chicken rolls, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This initial frying seals in the flavors and gives a nice crust.
6. Baking the Chicken:
After browning, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is ooey-gooey!
7. Making the Easy Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, prepare your Dijon sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and Dijon mustard over medium heat. Stir constantly and heat until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-5 minutes. If you want, add a touch of lemon juice and honey for that extra zing and sweetness.
8. Serving It Up:
Once the chicken is finished baking, carefully remove the toothpicks if you used any. Slice each roll diagonally into pieces to showcase the delicious filling inside. Arrange them on plates and drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce.
9. Final Touch:
Serve your Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with your favorite sides, like steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this scrumptious meal with family and friends!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, pound them to an even thickness as directed in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, Gruyere is a great alternative due to its melting properties. Mozzarella can also work if you’re looking for a milder flavor, or try a mix of your favorite cheeses for a more unique taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through for best results.
Can I Make the Dijon Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Dijon sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before serving for the best flavor and consistency.
