Name: Cordon Bleu Chicken: 7 Steps to Culinary Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 medium chicken breasts; 8 slices Black Forest ham; 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese; 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce); 1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon EACH salt, pepper

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Cordon Bleu Chicken is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory Black Forest ham, and creamy Swiss Gruyere cheese, all wrapped in a crispy panko crust. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that elevates family dinners and special occasions. This easy-to-make dish is visually stunning when plated and is paired beautifully with a rich Dijon cream sauce that enhances the flavors. Let’s explore how to create this gourmet delight!

Why You’ll Love This Cordon Bleu Chicken

This recipe for Cordon Bleu Chicken is a total crowd-pleaser! Here are a few reasons to love it:

Deliciously savory flavor with layers of ham and cheese.
Easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Perfect for special occasions, turning any dinner into a gourmet experience.
Can be made ahead of time and frozen for convenience.
Great for kids, offering a fun twist on traditional chicken dishes.
Low-fat option available using healthier cooking methods.

With ingredients like Black Forest ham and Swiss cheese, this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe fits perfectly into a low-fat diet, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners.

Ingredients for Cordon Bleu Chicken

Gather these items:

4 medium chicken breasts
8 slices Black Forest ham
1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
1/4 teaspoon EACH salt, pepper

How to Make Cordon Bleu Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with a rack.
Step 2: Flatten each chicken breast to about 1/4 inch thick using a meat mallet.
Step 3: Layer two slices of ham and a quarter cup of cheese on each breast, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Step 4: Prepare the panko breading by browning breadcrumbs in butter and olive oil, then mix in Parmesan and spices.
Step 5: Brush each chicken roll with a Dijon mixture, coat in breadcrumbs, and place on the baking rack.
Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Step 7: For the sauce, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and cream in a saucepan until smooth; bring to a boil then simmer until thickened.
Step 8: Slice the chicken rolls and serve drizzled with sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Cordon Bleu Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Easy to prepare and visually stunning when plated.
Serve with a side of vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
For an extra crispy texture, try baking the chicken on a wire rack.
Using low-sodium broth reduces overall sodium content, making it healthier.

Best Ways to Serve Cordon Bleu Chicken

Consider these serving suggestions:

Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner.
Drizzle with extra Dijon cream sauce for an indulgent touch.

How to Store and Reheat Cordon Bleu Chicken

To store, place leftover Cordon Bleu Chicken in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the final step in the cooking instructions to give your chicken a fresh taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cordon Bleu Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken?

The key to perfect Cordon Bleu Chicken is ensuring the chicken is not overcooked and the cheese is melted just right. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Can I make Cordon Bleu Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Cordon Bleu Chicken ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator the night before cooking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cordon Bleu Chicken?

Avoid common mistakes by ensuring the chicken is evenly pounded and tightly rolled. Also, use enough toothpicks to secure your rolls to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.

Variations of Cordon Bleu Chicken You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

Cordon Bleu Chicken with cream sauce: Add a creamy sauce for a richer flavor profile.
Baked Cordon Bleu Chicken: Opt for baking instead of frying for a healthier option.
Chicken Cordon Bleu variations for kids: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a fun twist.
Frozen Chicken Cordon Bleu: Prepare and freeze for quick weeknight dinners.

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For more tips on cooking chicken, visit this chicken noodle recipe or learn how to make Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup!