Looking for an easy and delicious meal? Look no further! This Easy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe combines tender chicken breasts with savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese—all baked to perfection. I’ll guide you through each step, from prep to plating, ensuring a tasty result every time. Whether you're a cooking novice or an experienced chef, this dish will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this simple and tasty dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese inside the tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the traditional process, making it accessible even for beginner cooks while still delivering impressive results.
- Crispy Texture: Using panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crunch on the outside, providing a satisfying contrast to the juicy chicken inside.
- Versatile Side Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, from garlic mashed potatoes to fresh salads, allowing for a customizable meal experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham (preferably smoked or honey-baked)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
The main ingredients create a tasty and simple dish. The chicken breasts serve as a base, holding the ham and Swiss cheese inside. Breadcrumbs give a crunchy texture. Parmesan cheese adds depth. Garlic powder and Italian herbs boost the flavor while salt and pepper balance it all out.
Optional Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Olive oil helps to crisp the chicken while baking. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme make a nice garnish. These optional ingredients enhance the dish’s look and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Preparing the chicken: Take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks well and makes rolling easier.
Assembly and Cooking
- Assembling the cordon bleu: Lay one slice of ham on each flattened chicken breast. Next, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top. Carefully roll the chicken from the narrow end. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the rolls.
- Breading process: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shake off the excess, dip it in eggs, and roll it in the breadcrumb mix to coat well.
- Baking instructions: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Remove any toothpicks if used.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
How to pound chicken evenly To pound chicken evenly, place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin. Start at the thickest part and gently work your way to the edges. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes rolling easier.
Ensuring perfect cooking temperature The right cooking temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. If you do not have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal sides to accompany the dish Pair your chicken cordon bleu with garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy texture complements the crispy chicken. A crisp green salad also works well. The freshness of the salad balances the rich flavors of the dish. You can even add steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
Presentation tips for serving Slice each chicken roll into medallions for a nice look. Arrange them on a platter for display. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This makes the dish more inviting. Serve with your chosen sides on the same platter for an appealing meal.
Pro Tips
- Flatten Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking and easier rolling.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ham and Swiss cheese for the best flavor in your chicken cordon bleu.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier coating, double-dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to keep the juices inside and maintain moisture.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change up the cheese and meat in this dish. Try using mozzarella or cheddar instead of Swiss. For the meat, turkey or chicken ham works well too. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, choose smoked provolone.
For those avoiding gluten, panko breadcrumbs may not suit you. Instead, use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Both options give a nice crunch.
Flavor Additions
Spices can really boost the taste of your chicken cordon bleu. Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a little heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also add great flavor.
For dipping, try using mustard or a homemade sauce. A simple mustard sauce with honey adds a sweet kick. You can also serve it with a side of marinara for a fun twist.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your baked chicken cordon bleu, let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Proper storage helps keep the chicken from drying out.
The shelf life of baked chicken cordon bleu is about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat chicken cordon bleu is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking tray. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Check that the chicken is warm all the way through.
You can also use a microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in short bursts, around 1 minute at a time. Check often to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare chicken cordon bleu ahead of time. After assembling the rolls, wrap them tightly and store them in the fridge. This keeps them fresh for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bake them right before serving.
What should I serve with chicken cordon bleu? I like to serve chicken cordon bleu with garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. These sides balance the rich flavors of the dish. You can also add steamed veggies for extra color and nutrition.
Troubleshooting Tips
Why is my chicken not cooking evenly? If the chicken cooks unevenly, check its thickness. Pound each breast to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) for proper cooking.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out? To keep the filling inside, roll the chicken tightly from the narrow end. Use toothpicks to secure it if needed. Make sure to bread the chicken well, which helps seal everything in during baking.
This blog post covered a delicious chicken cordon bleu recipe. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, preparation steps, and how to cook it just right. I shared tips for even cooking and ideas for serving. You can also explore variations to suit your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly and follow reheating tips for the best texture. With this guide, you can make a great dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy your cooking journey!
