Master the art of chicken cordon bleu: an easy oven-baked recipe for exquisite home dining

Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken cordon bleu, made effortlessly in the comfort of your oven. Our easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a perfectly cooked, crispy, and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices ham

For the Breading:

• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk

For Baking:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Assemble the Filling:

• Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
• Top with a slice of ham.

3. Bread the Chicken:

• In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• In a separate dish, whisk together egg and milk.
• Dip chicken breasts into the egg mixture, then coat with the bread crumb mixture.

4. Bake the Chicken:

• Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle with olive oil.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove chicken from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• For a crispier breading, double-coat the chicken in the egg mixture and bread crumb mixture.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin to flatten the chicken breasts.
• For a healthier option, use whole-wheat bread crumbs and low-fat cheese.
• Serve chicken cordon bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Variations:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Spinach: Add a handful of chopped spinach to the bread crumb mixture for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Mustard: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken breasts before adding the filling for a tangy twist.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Prosciutto: Replace the ham with prosciutto for a more sophisticated flavor.

Why Oven-Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?

• Convenience: No need for deep frying or messy cleanup.
• Healthier: Oven-baking reduces the fat content compared to deep-frying.
• Crispy and Golden Brown: The bread crumb coating creates a crispy exterior without sacrificing the juicy interior.
• Versatile: Can be served with a variety of sides and sauces.

Final Thoughts:

Oven-baked chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken cordon bleu up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: What sauce can I serve with chicken cordon bleu?
A: Chicken cordon bleu pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as honey mustard, Dijon mustard, or a simple pan sauce made with white wine and butter.

Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu without bread crumbs?
A: Yes, you can use crushed crackers or tortilla chips as a substitute for bread crumbs.