Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is like a warm hug from the culinary world, enveloping you in layers of crispy chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese. Sweet Easter cookie bars The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and whispering sweet nothings of flavor and comfort.
Imagine slicing into that golden crust to reveal a melty, cheesy center while your family gathers around the table, eagerly awaiting their first bite. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests, this recipe promises to be the star of the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is simple yet impressive, making meal prep a breeze.
- Its delightful combination of flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- With its beautiful presentation, this dish will wow your guests at any gathering.
- Perfect for special occasions or even just a family dinner night in.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Thinly Sliced Ham: Choose your favorite type; smoked ham adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: This creamy cheese melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the ham.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch on top, panko gives the dish texture that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
- Mustard: A little Dijon mustard adds tanginess and enhances the flavors of the filling.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the breadcrumbs to achieve that golden brown color.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth enriches the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Cornstarch: This helps thicken your sauce to create a luscious finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray—this will help keep your masterpiece from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Take those boneless chicken breasts and gently pound them down to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Don’t go all Hulk on them; you want them flattened but not pulverized.
Step 3: Assemble Your Filling
Spread about one tablespoon of Dijon mustard onto each chicken breast. Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on top. Roll each chicken breast tightly like you’re wrapping up a precious gift.
Step 4: Coat with Panko
In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until well combined. This will create that glorious crunchy topping we all love. Dip each rolled chicken breast into this mixture ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
Step 5: Bake
Arrange your beautifully coated chicken rolls in your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Make Your Sauce
While your chicken is baking, combine chicken broth and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until thickened—voilà! You’ve got yourself an easy sauce to drizzle over those lovely cordon bleus.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as you revel in your culinary triumph!
And there you have it—your very own Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu! Not only does it deliver on flavor but also brings warmth to any dining table. Your friends might think you’ve been secretly taking cooking classes; just don’t let them know how easy it was!
You Must Know
- This baked chicken cordon bleu recipe offers more than just flavor; it’s a delightful way to impress your guests or family.
- With crispy, golden-brown chicken wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, it’s a meal that truly feels gourmet without the fuss.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to a blissful 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms, pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Next, assemble your components: layer ham and cheese on the chicken, roll tightly, and secure with toothpicks before baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this baked chicken cordon bleu by swapping ham for turkey or adding spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or gouda for a unique twist that will make your taste buds dance. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through to retain that delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temp of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let your chicken rest after baking—this keeps it juicy!
- Don’t skip the toothpicks—they help maintain the beautiful rolled shape during cooking.
Sometimes I whip up this baked chicken cordon bleu for dinner parties, and every time I get rave reviews. It’s become my secret weapon for impressing friends without breaking a sweat!
FAQs:
What is Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious dish made with chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and baked until golden. This classic French-inspired recipe offers a fantastic combination of flavors and textures that make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Grilled lemon chicken recipe By baking instead of frying, this version is healthier while still delivering a crispy exterior and juicy filling. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that can impress anyone at the dinner table.
How do I prepare the chicken for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
To prepare chicken for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu, start by flattening boneless skinless chicken breasts using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to roll. Lay slices of ham and cheese on each chicken breast before rolling them tightly, securing them with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Finally, coat each roll in flour, dip in egg wash, and cover with breadcrumbs for that crunchy finish when baked.
Can I make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through completely. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests without feeling rushed in the kitchen.
What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes for creaminess or a fresh garden salad to add crunch. Comforting lentil soup Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also work well, providing color and nutrition to the plate. For a comforting touch, you might also enjoy some buttery rice or pasta tossed with herbs.
Conclusion for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu:
In summary, Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is an elegant yet simple dish that brings delightful flavors to your table. With its combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at dinner. Preparing this dish ahead of time increases convenience without sacrificing taste. Pairing it with suitable sides enhances the overall meal experience. Enjoy creating this delicious recipe and sharing it with your loved ones!
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a crowd-pleasing dish that features tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy panko coating. This easy-to-make recipe transforms weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. With its golden crust and melty interior, this delicious dish will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices thinly sliced ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pound the chicken breasts to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet.
- Spread Dijon mustard on each breast, top with one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil in a bowl; coat each rolled chicken breast in the mixture.
- Place the rolls in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Meanwhile, combine chicken broth and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened for the sauce.
- Serve the baked chicken drizzled with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, try using smoked ham or different cheese varieties like gouda or cheddar. - To make ahead, prepare the rolls up to baking and refrigerate until ready to cook.
