Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a tasty dish where juicy chicken wraps around ham and gooey cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
When I make this, I feel like a chef! It’s easy to whip up and makes my kitchen smell amazing. Perfect with a side salad or crispy veggies—just watch those cheese pulls! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use turkey breasts or thinly sliced chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Ham: While Swiss ham is traditional, feel free to use smoked turkey or even prosciutto for a different taste. Just be mindful of salt levels since some hams can be quite salty.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese gives that classic flavor, but you can swap it for provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese or want to change the texture a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a light, crispy coating. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they might not yield the same crunch. Consider crushing some crackers or cornflakes as an alternative.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add great flavor. You can replace these with Italian seasoning or some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano if desired.
How Do I Properly Pound Chicken Without Making a Mess?
To achieve an even thickness while pounding chicken, use plastic wrap to avoid splatter. This also keeps your meat tender. Here’s how:
- Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. This helps contain any juices.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin, starting from the center and working your way outwards until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
- Repeat for all chicken breasts, and don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform – this will help keep them juicy as they cook!
How to Make Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
For the Breading:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. That’s a great time for a fantastic meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is getting warm, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly and makes for easy rolling!
3. Season the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy with the seasonings—it gives the chicken lots of flavors!
4. Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Now, take each seasoned chicken breast and lay 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top. Leave a little space around the edges to make rolling easier.
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from one end, carefully roll the chicken breast tightly. If needed, you can use toothpicks to secure the ends to keep everything inside while baking.
6. Set Up the Breading Station:
Prepare for breading! In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. And in a third bowl, spread the breadcrumbs. This will make it easy to coat the chicken rolls.
7. Bread the Chicken Rolls:
Take each chicken roll and dredge it in the flour first, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make them stick.
8. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place your breaded chicken rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This will help keep them from unrolling while they bake.
9. Bake the Chicken:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the chicken in the oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes. They’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are nice and golden brown.
10. Let It Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Optionally, serve your delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu with a creamy mustard sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Dig in and enjoy your amazing creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese or Ham?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with other types like provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar. For the ham, you can use turkey ham or even prosciutto for a gourmet twist. Just be mindful of how the flavors might change the overall dish!
Can I Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare and bread the chicken rolls ahead of time, then store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions. If freezing, wrap each roll tightly, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through to maintain the crispiness of the breadcrumbs.
What Should I Serve with Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, you can also serve it with a creamy mustard sauce or a side of pasta for a delicious contrast!
