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Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu


  • Author: Ellie
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless French-inspired dish made with tender chicken breasts rolled with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked (or fried) until golden and crispy. Elegant yet comforting, it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 4 slices deli ham

  • 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for crispier bake)

Optional Dijon Cream Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare chicken: Pound chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. Add filling: Lay 1 slice of ham and 1 slice of cheese on each breast. Roll up tightly, securing with toothpicks if needed. Tuck in the sides to seal.

  4. Bread the chicken:

    • Dredge each roll in flour, then dip in beaten eggs.

    • Coat in breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.

    • For extra crispiness, drizzle with melted butter or use cooking spray.

  5. Bake: Place chicken in the baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. Make optional sauce:

    • In a small saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

    • Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened.

    • Stir in Dijon mustard, Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

  7. Serve: Drizzle with sauce or serve on the side. Enjoy warm with vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Notes

You can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.

For a lighter option, use turkey ham or skip the sauce.

 

  • This can also be pan-fried in oil for an even crispier texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Baking (or frying)
  • Cuisine: French-American

Keywords: Chicken cordon bleu, stuffed chicken, ham and cheese chicken, crispy chicken bake, classic dinner recipe, French chicken dish