There’s something magical about Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken, lovingly wrapped around smoky ham and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a crispy golden crust that crackles with every bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your senses and making your stomach growl louder than a toddler denied dessert. This dish isn’t just food; it’s comfort, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of cooking prowess all rolled into one delightful package. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
When I first attempted Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu at home, I wasn’t just trying to impress my family; I was on a mission to reclaim my culinary honor after a disastrous attempt at soufflé (let’s not talk about that). Little did I know that this dish would become a household favorite. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions where you want to feel like a gourmet chef without the fuss. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers amazing flavors with minimal effort
- Its visually appealing presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests
- The cheesy filling pairs beautifully with succulent chicken, creating a satisfying meal for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with various fillings or sides according to your preference
You know that feeling when you whip up something divine in the kitchen and everyone can’t stop raving about it? That’s what happened when I first made this dish—the kids were too busy fighting over the last piece to notice their vegetables.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 chicken breasts, ensuring they’re even in thickness for consistent cooking.
Ham Slices: Opt for good-quality deli ham; the flavor enhances the overall taste.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss melts beautifully—just make sure it’s sliced thinly for easy rolling.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add extra crunch; don’t substitute them unless you absolutely must.
Eggs: You’ll need one or two for binding—fresh is best!
Flour: A light dusting helps the egg stick better; don’t skip this step.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle adds depth; fresh garlic will work too if you’re feeling fancy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate flavors; use them generously but wisely!
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: To ensure your chicken doesn’t stick while baking; no one likes a clingy dinner!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and that delightful golden crust we all crave.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick. This helps tenderize the meat and makes rolling easier.
Add the Fillings: Lay down slices of ham and Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy! Channel your inner sandwich artist and cover almost entirely.
Roll Them Up: Starting from one end, roll the chicken tightly around the fillings like you’re wrapping a gift from Santa. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine—no one wants an escapee!
Dredge for Crunchiness: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder. Dredge each roll first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs—this triple-dip is key to that irresistible crunch!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to enhance browning. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are gloriously golden brown.
And voilà! You’ve created Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu that will have everyone swooning—prepare yourself for compliments galore!
This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings alike. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- The Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The melty cheese and crispy coating create a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible
- Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a delightful meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients, then bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. This sequence ensures even cooking and perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or use different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack. Experimenting can add a personal flair to your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip the toothpicks; they help hold everything together beautifully while baking
- Make sure you use fresh herbs for extra flavor that pops
- Always let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy and tender
When I first tried making Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu, my kitchen turned into a cheese explosion! My friends still talk about that glorious mess and the delicious outcome.
FAQ
Can I make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad complement the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu perfectly.
Can I freeze Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking; just thaw completely before cooking.
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, smoky ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy golden crust. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers impressive flavors with minimal effort. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds as they savor every cheesy bite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz good-quality deli ham slices
- 8 oz Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about half an inch thick.
- Lay ham and Swiss cheese on each breast, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Dredge each roll in seasoned flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Place rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute turkey for chicken or experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.