Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is an exquisite dish that combines succulent chicken breasts, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese. Wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating and drizzled with a rich creamy Dijon sauce, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a special family meal. Its delightful blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for various occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
• Step 3: Prepare for Frying
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Pair with Fresh Vegetables
• Accompany with a Green Salad
• Serve Over Mashed Potatoes
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Can I bake instead of fry?
• What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, ham, and cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Elegant Presentation: This dish looks stunning on any plate, making it ideal for special events or gatherings.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it with vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes to suit your preferences.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have an impressive meal ready in under an hour.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls in advance for a fuss-free cooking experience on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Deep pan for frying
• Mixing bowls (3)
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps tenderize the chicken for better texture and flavor absorption.
• Plastic wrap: Keeps the chicken rolls secure while setting in the refrigerator.
• Deep pan for frying: Ensures even cooking and browning of the rolls.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ lb ham, thinly sliced
• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs (100 g)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (480 mL)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (60 g)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (100 g)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat evenly. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it down to about ½ inch (1 cm) thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Remove the plastic wrap from each breast. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese followed by 2 slices of ham. Add another layer of Swiss cheese and ham. Roll each chicken breast tightly and wrap it in plastic wrap. Twist and tie the ends to secure each roll. Repeat with all remaining breasts and refrigerate them for 30 minutes to set.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

Preheat your deep pan with about 2 inches (5 cm) of oil to 325°F (170°C). Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll first in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs ensuring an even coating.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Fry each chicken roll in hot oil for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. If necessary, transfer them to a wire rack over a baking sheet and finish baking in a preheated oven at 325°F (170°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté minced garlic until soft. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute before gradually adding milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice each chicken roll into pieces and drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce. Pair with fresh vegetables or salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Serving Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is all about enhancing its rich flavors while keeping the presentation elegant. Here are some delightful ways to serve this classic dish that will impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds color and a crisp texture that complements the creamy sauce.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a nutritious side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.

Accompany with a Green Salad

• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a perfect contrast to the Chicken Cordon Bleu.
• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with vinaigrette can refresh the palate while adding a light touch to your meal.

Serve Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture is ideal for soaking up the delicious Dijon sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Perfecting Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of the chicken and filling.
• Even Thickness: Ensure chicken breasts are pounded evenly. This allows for uniform cooking and tenderness throughout.
• Chill Before Frying: Refrigerate the rolled chicken for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain shape during frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure oil is at 325°F (170°C). This prevents greasy rolls and ensures a crispy coating.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese for better flavor and texture in your sauce.
• Let it Rest: Allow fried chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds a subtle flavor that complements the richness of the chicken without overpowering it.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing brings freshness and texture alongside the main dish.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide an earthy crunch that balances out the creaminess of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini offers a healthy, colorful addition that enhances your plate’s visual appeal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not pounding the chicken evenly: Uneven thickness can cause some parts to cook faster than others, leading to dryness. Use a meat mallet to ensure uniform thickness.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Putting too many chicken rolls in the pan at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy breading. Fry in batches for a crispy exterior.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking if the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the refrigeration step: Not chilling the assembled rolls before frying may cause them to fall apart. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: Making the creamy Dijon sauce too quickly can lead to lumps. Take your time whisking and adding ingredients gradually.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until heated.
• Stovetop: Return chicken rolls to a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish featuring breaded chicken filled with ham and Swiss cheese, topped with a creamy Dijon sauce.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes! You can bake the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes as a healthier alternative.

What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Fresh vegetables, green salad, or mashed potatoes make excellent side dishes that complement this rich main course.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella, or add herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them up to a day in advance. Just fry or bake when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and customizable options, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!