Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu. This classic French dish combines juicy chicken breasts with ham and cheese, all baked to golden perfection and topped with a creamy sauce. It's perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal and is easier to prepare than you might think.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Slices of ham
• Slices of Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• Flour
• Eggs
• Bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• Salt and pepper
• Butter
• Cream (for the sauce)
• Optional: garlic powder, Dijon mustard, parsley (for flavoring)

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Flatten the Chicken

• Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap.
• Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness.

Season the Chicken

• Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Cordon Bleu

Layer the Ingredients

• Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each flattened chicken breast.

Roll the Chicken

• Carefully roll the chicken tightly, starting from one side, and secure it with toothpicks if necessary.

Dredge the Chicken

• Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs.
• Coat each chicken roll in flour, dip it in the egg, and finally roll it in bread crumbs until fully covered.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sear the Chicken

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add the chicken rolls and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).

Bake the Chicken

• Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic (optional) until fragrant.
• Stir in cream, Dijon mustard, and any seasonings you prefer (like parsley or garlic powder).
• Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve the Chicken

Plate the Dish

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove toothpicks and slice the rolls if desired.
• Drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs.

Conclusion

You have successfully made Chicken Cordon Bleu! This dish not only impresses with its flavors but also with its presentation. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or seasonings for a personalized twist!