There’s something magical about the aroma of chicken sizzling in the kitchen, isn’t there?
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.
Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply want a quick solution for a busy weeknight, this dish has you covered.
With its crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s easy to whip up, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish.
The combination of crispy chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy a hungry family.
What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success.
For this Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing a tender and juicy base.
Ham: Adds a savory, salty punch that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly, creating that creamy, gooey texture we all crave.
All-purpose flour: Essential for the breading process, giving the chicken that crispy exterior.
Eggs: Help the breadcrumbs stick, ensuring a golden crust.
Breadcrumbs: The secret to achieving that satisfying crunch.
Garlic powder: A must-have for flavor; it adds depth without overpowering.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste.
Paprika: Brings a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to the dish.
Salt and pepper: The classic seasoning duo that elevates every ingredient.
Olive oil: Used for pan-frying, it adds richness and helps achieve that golden brown.
Heavy cream: The base for the creamy sauce, making it rich and indulgent.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce, balancing the richness.
Fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness for garnish.
Feel free to get creative!
You can swap out the Swiss cheese for cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.
And if you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey ham or even skipping the frying step altogether.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Creating this Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful journey.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
This step is crucial for even cooking.
A hot oven ensures that your chicken rolls cook through while achieving that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap.
Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
Don’t forget to season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for optimal flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Now it’s time to layer the goodness.
Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
Roll the chicken tightly, making sure the filling stays inside.
If needed, secure the rolls with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
Step 4: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare your breading station to make the coating process smooth.
In one shallow dish, place all-purpose flour.
In another, beat the eggs until frothy.
Finally, mix breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper in a third dish.
This setup will help you achieve that crispy exterior.
Step 5: Bread the Chicken Rolls
Now, let’s get those chicken rolls coated!
Dredge each roll in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
This three-step process is key to achieving that satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken rolls and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
This pan-frying step is essential for texture, giving your chicken that crispy outer layer.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Once browned, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Step 8: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken bakes, let’s whip up the creamy sauce.
In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream and Dijon mustard over medium heat.
Stir until heated through and slightly thickened.
This sauce will elevate your dish, adding a rich, tangy flavor.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken rolls and garnish with fresh parsley.
This final touch not only adds flavor but also makes your dish look restaurant-worthy.
Tips for Success
Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s key to flavoring the chicken.
Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
For extra crunch, consider double-breading the chicken rolls.
Keep an eye on the sauce; stir frequently to prevent burning.
Equipment Needed
Meat mallet: A rolling pin works in a pinch for pounding the chicken.
Shallow dishes: Use pie plates or any flat dishes for breading.
Oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect, but any oven-safe pan will do.
Toothpicks: If you don’t have these, kitchen twine can secure the rolls.
Variations of Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Cheese Swap: Try using cheddar or provolone instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the chicken for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeño slices or pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices for a meatless delight.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Low-Calorie Version: Bake the chicken rolls without frying and use low-fat cheese for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, enhances the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Plate the chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting touch.
FAQs about Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Can I make Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover them tightly to keep them fresh.
What can I serve with Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. A crisp white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Can I freeze the chicken rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chicken rolls. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you’re out of Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or even a bit of mayonnaise mixed with vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.
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How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The joy of rolling up those chicken breasts, the satisfying crunch of the breadcrumbs, and the rich, creamy sauce all come together to make a dish that warms the heart.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to your table.
So, gather your loved ones, serve up this delightful dish, and watch as smiles spread around the room.
Trust me, it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss!
A delicious twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu, featuring crispy chicken rolls filled with ham and Swiss cheese, topped with a creamy Dijon sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 ounces ham, sliced
4 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll the chicken tightly, securing the filling inside. Use toothpicks to hold the rolls together if necessary.
Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, beat the eggs in another dish, and mix the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper in a third dish.
Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it in the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Once browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
While the chicken is baking, prepare the creamy sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and Dijon mustard over medium heat. Stir until heated through and slightly thickened.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken rolls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken rolls without frying them first. Just spray them lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Try adding different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique flavor twist.