What is my go-to recipe when I need something comforting, satisfying, and delicious? What are some of the best things about a veganBaked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are someForget fussing with frying – this version is all about easy prep and maximum flavor, and it’s become a household favorite. a staple in our house. Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of chicken nuggets, but way more impressive (and secretly, a good one)! What are some of the easiest things to make? I swear, even picky eaters can’t resist this cheesy, ham-filled delight. I always do this when I have leftover ham from the holidays!
What is a Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
What exactly is the meaning of “what is aBaked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are some? It’s essentially a chicken breast that’s been pounded thin, stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked until golden brown and perfectly melty inside. “Cordon Bleu,” by the way, translates to “blue ribbon” in French, which gives you a hint of just how fancy (and delicious!) this dish is. It’s often pan-fried, but baking it cuts down on the mess and the fat, making it a weeknight-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice any of the flavor. Think of it as a fancy chicken sandwich, but deconstructed and baked to perfection. You know you’re winning when even the adults are fighting over the last piece!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
I adore this girl. Let me count the ways I love her.Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are some recipe! What I love most is how incredibly flavorful it is. The combination of the savory ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and juicy chicken is just divine. And honestly, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Don’t let the fancy name fool you; we’re talking about simple steps that even a beginner cook can master. Plus, it’s relatively cost-effective. Chicken breasts are usually easy to find on sale, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry or fridge. If you’re looking for something similar but with a bit of a kick, you might also like my spicy baked Chicken Tenders.
What sets this apart is the versatility. You can serve this.Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are some with just about anything. Need a quick lunch? Slice it up for sandwiches. Want an elegant dinner? Pair it with roasted asparagus and mashed potatoes. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. This is one of the recipes where my whole family cheers when they hear it’s for dinner. Seriously, the kids ask for this all the time – and that’s a win in my book!
How do I make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Quick Overview
Making this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu.Is it easier than you think to do it? How do I prepare a chicken, layer it with ham and cheese, bread it, and bake it? It to golden perfection. This baked version is especially great because it’s healthier and less messy than the traditional recipe. Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients
For the chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6-8 ounces each. If you pound them, make sure they’re not too thick.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste, of course. Don’t be shy!
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese: I prefer the deli-sliced kind for easy layering.
• 4 slices of cooked ham: Again, deli meat works perfectly here. Black Forest ham adds a nice smoky flavor.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For the breading station. You can use gluten-free flour if needed.
• 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten. These will help the breadcrumbs stick.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These give the Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are someWhat are some good breadcrumbs to use for a crispy crust?
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For drizzling over the chicken before baking. How do I make it golden brown?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. How do you keep chickens from sticking?
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a ziplock bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about 1/4-inch thickness. What is the best way to roll a roll? Season with salt and pepper. I always do this gently so that the chicken doesn’t shred.
Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
Place ham and Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast. How do I leave a little space around the edges so that the filling doesn’t spill out while baking?
Step 4: Roll & Secure
Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end. Secure with toothpicks to prevent it from unrolling during baking. I’ve had a few disasters where the filling oozed everywhere!
Step 5: Set Up Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one beaten eggs, and another with panko breadcrumbs. This is the breading station assembly line! How do you add Parmesan cheese to breadcrumbs?
Step 6: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken roll in flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, followed by the panko breadcrumbs. How do you press breadcrumbs into your hands?
Step 7: Bake
Place the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Cool & Serve
How do you remove toothpicks from your mouth?Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What do you rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
What should I serve it with?
This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: What are someIs incredibly versatile, and pairs well with so many things! What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: by serving it.
For a Weeknight Dinner: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A simple side salad also works wonders.
For a Special Occasion: Elevate the dish with mashed potatoes, creamy risotto, or a fancy side of wild rice. A drizzle of Dijon mustard sauce can also add a touch of elegance.
For Lunch: Slice the Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu and serve it in sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mayonnaise or honey mustard for extra flavor.
My family loves it with a side of mac and cheese – sometimes it feels like I’m serving two comfort foods at once! This is perfect when you’re looking for something simple, delicious and comforting.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu absolutely perfect every single time. Here are some of my top tips:
Pounding the Chicken: Don’t skip this step! Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and is tender. I always do this gently so the chicken doesn’t shred.
Securing the Rolls: Use enough toothpicks to keep the chicken rolls from unraveling during baking. I usually use 2-3 toothpicks per roll.
Breading Technique: Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This will give it a crispy, golden crust.
Cheese Selection: While Swiss cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or provolone. Just make sure it melts well!
Ham Variety: Black Forest ham adds a nice smoky flavor, but you can also use regular deli ham or even prosciutto.
Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
I tested this with different breadcrumbs, and panko gave it the best crunch, hands down. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a little garlic powder or paprika to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is delicious fresh, but it also stores well. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for meal prepping lunches!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap each chicken roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label with the date!
Reheating: To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the breading may not be as crispy. I always do this if I am looking for something quick.
Glaze Timing Advice: For optimal results, add any sauces or toppings right before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my super easy and incredibly delicious recipe for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu! It’s a dish that always impresses, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you might also enjoy my baked parmesan chicken or my chicken stuffed with spinach and artichoke. I hope you give this one a try, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know if you tried a fun variation – happy baking!