Experience a new twist on a classic favorite with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, where tender chicken breasts are stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, then smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that takes this dish to the next level. This comforting recipe combines the crispy, golden exterior of traditional cordon bleu with a luscious creamy sauce that adds warmth and depth to every bite. Perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress without hours in the kitchen, this recipe unlocks layers of flavor and indulgence that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pairs beautifully: Perfect alongside veggies, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Classic flavors with a creamy twist: Ham and cheese meet a rich, silky sauce.
Tender, juicy chicken: Stuffed and cooked to perfection every time.
Comfort food elevated: A cozy, elegant dish suitable for any occasion.
Impresses with ease: Simple enough for weeknights, special enough for guests.
Rich and satisfying: Creamy sauce adds indulgence without overwhelming.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Thin slices of smoky ham wrap the chicken in savory, salty goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They provide a tender base for all the delicious fillings.
Thinly sliced ham: Adds a savory, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and cheese.
Swiss cheese: This melty delight brings creaminess and a subtle nuttiness to the dish.
All-purpose flour: Essential for the breading process, giving the chicken a crispy exterior.
Large eggs: They act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): For that extra crunch! Panko breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating.
Garlic powder: A must-have for flavor! It adds depth and aroma to the chicken.
Onion powder: Enhances the savory profile, making each bite more flavorful.
Paprika: This spice not only adds color but also a hint of smokiness.
Salt and pepper: The basics! They elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
Sour cream: The base for the tangy Dijon sauce, adding creaminess and a slight tang.
Dijon mustard: This brings a zesty kick to the sauce, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors in the sauce.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist. You can find the exact quantities of these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy chicken cordon bleu. Each step is straightforward, ensuring you can whip this up with confidence. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your chicken rolls will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Pound the Chicken
Next, take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick. This step is crucial for even cooking. A thinner chicken breast cooks faster and stays juicy!
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Now it’s time to add flavor! Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what makes your creamy chicken cordon bleu so delicious. Let those flavors soak in for a few minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Lay 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Starting from one end, roll the chicken tightly, enclosing the ham and cheese. Secure the rolls with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything in place during cooking.
Step 5: Bread the Chicken
Set up your breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. This will give your chicken a crispy texture!
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken rolls. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a beautiful crust. After frying, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Step 7: Make the Dijon Sauce
While the chicken is baking, let’s whip up the creamy Dijon sauce. In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. This sauce is the perfect tangy complement to your chicken rolls.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside. Serve your creamy chicken cordon bleu with the Dijon sauce drizzled on top or on the side. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy and flavorful.
For extra crunch, consider double-breading your chicken rolls.
Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Equipment Needed
Meat mallet or rolling pin: For pounding the chicken. A heavy skillet can work in a pinch.
Shallow dishes: For breading. Any flat plates will do.
Large skillet: For frying. A non-stick pan is ideal.
Baking sheet: To transfer chicken for baking. Line it with parchment for easy cleanup.
Toothpicks or kitchen twine: To secure the chicken rolls. You can also use kitchen string.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Herbed Chicken Cordon Bleu: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
Stuffed with Spinach: Incorporate sautéed spinach along with the ham and cheese for a nutritious boost.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Oven-Baked Version: Skip the frying and brush the chicken rolls with olive oil before baking for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, enhances the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Drizzle the Dijon sauce artistically over the chicken for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Can I make creamy chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls and even bread them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
What can I serve with creamy chicken cordon bleu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. The creamy Dijon sauce adds a nice touch to any side you choose!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
Is creamy chicken cordon bleu gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t compromise on taste!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Final Thoughts
Creating creamy chicken cordon bleu is more than just cooking; it’s about crafting a memorable experience. The joy of rolling up tender chicken with savory ham and melty cheese is a delight that fills your kitchen with warmth. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Plus, the creamy Dijon sauce adds a tangy twist that elevates the dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe invites you to enjoy the process and savor the delicious results. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
A delicious and creamy chicken cordon bleu recipe featuring crispy chicken rolls filled with ham and Swiss cheese, served with a tangy Dijon sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 ounces thinly sliced ham
4 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup sour cream (for Dijon sauce)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for Dijon sauce)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for Dijon sauce)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/2 inch thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Lay 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll the chicken tightly, starting from one end, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, beat the eggs in another dish, and combine the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper in a third dish.
Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken rolls and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken is baking, prepare the Dijon sauce by mixing sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the Dijon sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
Notes
For a healthier option, bake the chicken rolls instead of frying them. Brush with olive oil and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
Add some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
