Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 slices of ham; 4 slices of Swiss cheese; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French-inspired dish that features tender chicken breasts rolled with layers of savory ham and Swiss cheese, coated in golden breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection. A rich Dijon cream sauce elevates the dish, making it suitable for both elegant dinners and satisfying family meals. It’s a timeless recipe that combines indulgent flavors with a crisp, irresistible texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you love in a comforting yet refined dish. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese and flavorful ham inside. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. The accompanying Dijon cream sauce brings a luxurious touch, enhancing every bite with creamy, tangy richness. Plus, it’s baked instead of fried, offering a lighter alternative to traditional methods.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 slices of ham
4 slices of Swiss cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

For the Cream Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Use a meat mallet to flatten the chicken breasts to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Lay one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each piece of chicken. Roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Season the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown each chicken roll on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden.
While the chicken bakes, prepare the cream sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the chicken is done, slice into rounds and serve topped with the warm cream sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per serving: 465 kcal

Variations

Cheese Swap: Replace Swiss with Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Ham Alternatives: Prosciutto or smoked turkey can be used for a unique twist.
Spiced Breadcrumbs: Add paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-friendly adaptation.
Air Fryer Method: Cook the breaded chicken rolls in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Wrap uncooked or cooked chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. If microwaving, use medium heat and cover loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken rolls from falling apart?

Make sure to roll them tightly and secure with toothpicks. You can also place them seam-side down during cooking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls up to a day ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

What type of ham works best?

Thinly sliced deli ham works well, but you can also use Black Forest or honey-roasted ham for added flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but you will need to ensure they are boneless and evenly flattened for rolling.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the edges tightly and avoid overfilling. Using toothpicks and proper rolling technique helps.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard in the sauce?

Whole grain mustard or a small amount of yellow mustard can be used, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk alternatives for the sauce, though taste and texture may vary.

Can I omit the sauce entirely?

Yes, the chicken is flavorful enough on its own, though the sauce adds a rich finishing touch.

How do I get a really crispy coating?

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and make sure to brown the rolls well before baking.

What should I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a light salad pair beautifully with this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless favorite that combines elegance and comfort in every bite. With its crispy exterior, melty cheese and ham center, and rich Dijon cream sauce, it’s a standout meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is sure to delight and impress.

Chicken Cordon Bleu

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Bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with this classic Chicken Cordon Bleu—crispy, golden-baked chicken breasts rolled with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, finished with a luscious Dijon-Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or elegant entertaining, this comforting dish is timeless, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked / Sautéed
Cuisine: French-American

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Chicken:
Pound chicken breasts to ¼ inch thickness using a meat mallet.
Layer each with a slice of ham and cheese. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Bread the Chicken:
Mix flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Sear Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken roll for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Bake:
Transfer to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan. Simmer until thick and creamy. Season to taste.
Serve:
Remove toothpicks, slice chicken into rounds, and drizzle with cream sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.