Craving a comforting classic? try this baked chicken cordon bleu recipe for optimal flavor

Indulge in the delectable flavors of baked chicken cordon bleu, a culinary classic that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step to create an unforgettable dish that will impress your taste buds and become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices deli ham
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.

2. Bread the Chicken:

• Dip the chicken breasts into the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
• Shake off any excess flour.

3. Fill and Roll the Chicken:

• Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each chicken breast.
• Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on top of the mustard.
• Roll up the chicken breasts tightly, enclosing the filling.

4. Secure the Rolls:

• Wrap each chicken roll with a piece of kitchen string or toothpicks to hold it together.

5. Bake the Chicken:

• Place the chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Rest and Serve:

• Remove the chicken cordon bleu from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Tips for Success:

• For a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before adding the chicken.
• Use good quality cheese and ham to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• If you don’t have kitchen string, you can use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls.
• Let the chicken cordon bleu rest before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Variations:

• Try using different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, cheddar, or mozzarella.
• Add a slice of bacon to the filling for extra smokiness.
• Stuff the chicken rolls with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a more flavorful filling.

Beyond the Basics:

Pan-Fried Chicken Cordon Bleu:

For a crispy exterior, pan-fry the chicken cordon bleu rolls in a skillet with melted butter until golden brown on all sides.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu:

For a healthier option, air fry the chicken cordon bleu rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Individual Chicken Cordon Bleu Bites:

Cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces and wrap them with cheese and ham. Bake or fry until golden brown and cooked through.

Takeaways:

Baked chicken cordon bleu is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer the classic baked version or experiment with different cooking methods and variations, this culinary masterpiece is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Questions We Hear a Lot

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before pounding and breading.
• How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time? Yes, you can bread and fill the chicken up to a day ahead. Wrap them tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken cordon bleu? Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad are all excellent choices.
• Can I freeze cooked chicken cordon bleu? Yes, let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.