Juicy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe For Family Dinners

Culinary magic happens when you whip up this delectable baked chicken cordon bleu that combines classic French-inspired flavors with home-style comfort.

Swiss cheese and ham nestle perfectly inside tender chicken breasts, creating a mouthwatering centerpiece for any meal.

Crispy golden breadcrumbs coat the exterior, promising a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly to produce an elegant dish that looks impressive yet comes together effortlessly.

Minimal prep work means maximum flavor, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques.

Weeknight dinners or special gatherings will feel extraordinary with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Wondering how to make something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen?

This dish is your delicious answer.

Chicken Cordon Bleu FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in Chicken Cordon Bleu?

This classic dish combines chicken breasts, ham, and Swiss cheese rolled together and coated in breadcrumbs for a delicious, crispy exterior.

• Is Chicken Cordon Bleu difficult to make at home?

Not at all! With a few simple steps like pounding chicken, layering ham and cheese, and rolling it up, you can easily create this restaurant-style dish in your own kitchen.

• Can I use different types of cheese or ham?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes use Swiss cheese and ham, you can experiment with provolone, Gruyère, or different deli meats like turkey ham or prosciutto to suit your taste preferences.

• How do I prevent the chicken from drying out during baking?

To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking and use medium-sized chicken breasts. Pounding them to an even thickness helps ensure uniform cooking and prevents dry spots.

Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Made Simple

• Transform the traditionally complicated chicken cordon bleu into an easy, foolproof baked version that anyone can master in their kitchen.
• Prepare this delightful meal in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy families seeking a delicious dinner without lengthy cooking processes.
• Combine the irresistible flavors of tender chicken, melted cheese, and savory ham in a single dish that appeals to both kids and adults, guaranteeing clean plates and happy faces.
• Bake directly in a single dish with parchment paper or light grease, reducing post-meal kitchen mess and saving precious time for enjoying your meal together.

All You Need for This Classic Baked Dish

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, boneless cuts that form the base of this classic dish. Choose fresh, plump, and evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking.
• Ham: Salty, flavorful meat that adds a rich layer of taste. Opt for thin, high-quality deli ham for the best results.
• Swiss Cheese: Creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully inside the chicken. Select a good-quality, aged Swiss for maximum flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: Crispy exterior that provides a golden, crunchy texture. Panko or seasoned breadcrumbs work well for extra crunch.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the coating stick to the chicken and creates a smooth base layer. Standard white flour is perfect.
• Eggs: Binding agent that helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. Fresh eggs work best.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Freshly ground pepper adds more depth.
• Garlic Powder, Dried Herbs: Optional seasonings that boost the taste profile. Dried thyme or parsley complement the chicken nicely.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior and prevents sticking.

How to Stuff and Bake Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Breasts

Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Open the chicken like a book and gently pound to create an even thickness.

Step 2: Layer Delicious Fillings

Place a slice of ham inside each chicken breast. Top the ham with a slice of Swiss cheese. Carefully fold the chicken over, creating a sealed pocket with the ham and cheese inside.

Step 3: Create Crispy Coating

In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs with salt and black pepper. Brush each chicken bundle with Dijon mustard, then dip into the egg mixture. Roll the chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Arrange the coated chicken bundles in a greased baking dish. Lightly drizzle or spray olive oil over the top to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meal. Slice and serve hot.

Tips for Crispy Coating and Melty Cheese

• Prevent Cheese Leak: Seal chicken breasts tightly by pressing edges together and use toothpicks to secure the ham and cheese inside, preventing filling from oozing out during baking.
• Crisp Coating Trick: Dip chicken in beaten egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunchiness and golden-brown exterior that adds delightful texture.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked meat without drying out.
• Moisture Retention Hack: Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
• Healthier Swap Option: Replace traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed cornflakes for a lower-carb or gluten-free alternative that still delivers fantastic crunch.

Storing and Reheating Cordon Bleu with Care

• Store leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken cordon bleu stays fresh for 2-3 months.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If in a hurry, microwave on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating and prevent rubbery texture.

Side Pairings to Complete the Plate

• Select a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, rich flavors of the chicken cordon bleu.
• Serve with a fresh, tangy mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
• Pair with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans to add a vibrant vegetable side that balances the protein-packed main dish.
• Add a side of herbed risotto or buttery roasted potatoes to soak up the delicious melted cheese and create a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Cordon Bleu Variations You’ll Enjoy

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free rice crackers or almond meal for a celiac-friendly option that maintains crispy texture.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, stuffing with plant-based cheese and vegetarian ham for a meat-free adaptation.
• Low-Carb Modification: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and select thin chicken cutlets to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping classic flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Spin: Incorporate feta cheese instead of Swiss, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle oregano for a Greek-inspired rendition of the traditional recipe.

Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

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4.9 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheesy chicken cordon bleu elevates classic comfort cuisine with Swiss cheese and ham nestled inside golden-crusted chicken breasts. Crispy exterior and melted filling make this dish a crowd-pleasing classic you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyere)

Coating Ingredients:

• ½ cup (120 milliliters) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Activate the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C), preparing a baking vessel with a light coating of cooking spray or parchment paper lining.
2. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast, creating a flat surface for stuffing by slicing horizontally without completely separating the halves.
3. Layer thin slices of Swiss cheese and folded ham inside the opened chicken breast, ensuring even distribution across the interior.
4. Gently roll the chicken breast, securing the filling within, and use toothpicks to prevent unraveling during cooking.
5. Combine breadcrumbs with dried herbs, creating a savory coating mixture that will provide a crisp exterior.
6. Whisk eggs in a separate shallow dish, preparing a binding agent for the breading process.
7. Dip each rolled chicken bundle into the whisked eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then carefully roll in the herbed breadcrumb mixture.
8. Transfer the breaded chicken rolls to the prepared baking dish, positioning them with space between each piece for even heat circulation.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a golden-brown exterior and internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C).
10. Remove toothpicks before serving, allowing the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes to lock in moisture and make cutting easier.

Notes

• Select chicken breasts that are evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dryness.
• Consider using a meat mallet to pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent rolling and stuffing.
• Seal the chicken rolls tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the cheese and ham from leaking during baking.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyère or Swiss for unique flavor profiles while maintaining the classic cordon bleu essence.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 1000mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 130mg