Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Timeless Recipe for Elegant Comfort Food

If you're in the mood for a dish that combines elegance with comfort, look no further than Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. This dish features tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and baked to golden perfection. It’s a meal that’s impressive enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a comforting weeknight dinner.



What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French-inspired dish that translates to “blue ribbon chicken.” The recipe traditionally involves chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked or fried. The result is a crispy exterior with a warm, gooey cheese filling— a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.



Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need:



Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They are pounded thin to make room for the filling and to ensure even cooking.

Ham: Thinly sliced ham adds a savory depth to the dish. You can use deli ham or cooked ham, depending on what’s available.

Swiss Cheese: The mild, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese pairs perfectly with the ham. You can also use other types of cheese like Gruyère or provolone if you prefer.

Breadcrumbs: For a crispy coating, use seasoned breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are a great option for extra crunch.

Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.

Flour: A light dusting of flour helps the egg and breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken.

Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 slices of ham

4 slices of Swiss cheese

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)

Instructions:

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.



Prepare the Chicken:

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.



Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Carefully roll the chicken up, securing the filling inside. Use toothpicks to secure the ends and prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.



Bread the Chicken:

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.



Bake the Chicken:

Place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for added crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.



Serve and Enjoy:

Let the Chicken Cordon Bleu rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.



Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and are easy to roll.

Secure the Rolls: Toothpicks are essential for keeping the filling inside. Be sure to remove them before serving.

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Variations and Add-Ins

Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, fontina, or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Herb Coating: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

Stuffing Options: For added variety, you can incorporate ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, cheesy, and savory elements in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply looking to elevate your weekly meal routine, this recipe is sure to impress. With its combination of simple ingredients and elegant presentation, it’s a timeless choice that promises to please every palate. Give it a try and savor the comforting luxury of Chicken Cordon Bleu at home!