This Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe combines the best of both worlds: a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a creamy, flavorful interior. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with garlic and onion powders, then filled with layers of Swiss cheese and ham. After being rolled up and chilled, the chicken is coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before being fried to perfection. The dish is finished with a luscious Dijon sauce made from butter, garlic, flour, milk, mustard, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will impress your family and guests alike. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu served with creamy Dijon sauce
Delicious chicken cordon bleu served with creamy dijon sauce | Myhomemaderecipe.com

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of ham, Swiss cheese, and tender chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy breaded coating. This dish is not only delicious but also visually impressive, making it perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal. The creamy Dijon sauce adds a tangy finish, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

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

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, tossing to coat evenly.
  • On a cutting board, place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound until about ½ inch (1 cm) thick with a meat mallet, rolling pin, or heavy pan.

2. Layer the Ingredients

  • Remove the plastic wrap and place 2 slices of Swiss cheese, then 2 slices of ham, then another layer of Swiss cheese, and another layer of ham on the chicken breast.
  • Evenly roll the chicken and place it onto a new sheet of plastic wrap.

3. Chill the Chicken

  • Wrap the chicken in the plastic wrap tightly and use the excess plastic on the sides to twist, firming up the roll of chicken cordon bleu as you work. Tie the excess plastic.
  • Repeat with the remaining ingredients, then chill the rolls in the fridge to set for 30 minutes.

4. Preheat the Oil

  • Meanwhile, preheat a tall-sided pan with 2 inches (5 cm) of oil to 325°F (170°C).

5. Bread the Chicken

  • After the rolls are set, prepare 3 separate large, wide dishes with the flour, beaten egg, and bread crumbs.
  • Dredge the chicken first in the flour, then the egg, and then bread crumbs.

6. Fry the Chicken

  • Place the breaded chicken cordon bleu in the oil and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the outside is an even golden brown.
  • If a good color is achieved and the chicken’s center is still not 165°F (75°C), place the chicken cordon bleu on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and finish the chicken in the oven at 325°F (170°C) until that temperature is reached.

7. Prepare the Sauce

  • In a 1 ½-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook the garlic until soft. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute.
  • Add the milk and whisk until fully combined with the roux and no lumps remain. Continue whisking until the mixture comes to a simmer and has thickened.
  • Add the mustard, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper and whisk to combine. Remove the pan from the heat.

8. Serve

  • Slice the chicken and serve drizzled with Dijon sauce.

    • Serving and Storage Tips

    Serving Tips

    • Arrange the sliced chicken cordon bleu on a serving platter and drizzle with the creamy Dijon sauce. This adds a beautiful presentation and allows guests to appreciate the golden, crispy coating.
    • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
    • Pair the dish with simple sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
    • For a complete meal, serve with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

    Storage Tips

    • If you have leftovers, allow the chicken cordon bleu to cool to room temperature before storing.
    • Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
    • To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
    • For the sauce, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

    Helpful Notes and Variations

    • Variations: For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different types of cheese such as Gruyère or Havarti. You can also substitute the ham with prosciutto or turkey slices.
    • Baking Option: If you prefer baking over frying, you can bake the breaded chicken cordon bleu in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
    • Chef’s Tip: Chef Ina Garten suggests using high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce to achieve the best flavor and texture.
    • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken rolls in advance and freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with frying or baking.
    Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu served with creamy Dijon sauce
    Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu served with creamy Dijon sauce | myhomemaderecipe.com

    Summary

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