Chicken Cordon Bleu
Tender chicken breasts are wrapped around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. This elegant baked dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a special dinner.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Oven and Chicken (15 mins): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and adjust a rack to the middle position. Place one chicken breast at a time between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch, being careful not to tear the meat. Season both sides of each flattened breast with 1/2 tsp of the salt and 1/4 tsp of the pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Rolls (5 mins): On each flattened chicken breast, layer one slice of Swiss cheese and two slices of ham, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal. Starting from a shorter end, roll up each chicken breast as tightly as possible. Secure each roll with one or two toothpicks.
- 3
Set Up Breading Station (5 mins): Arrange three shallow dishes
- a.In the first, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third, combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bread the Chicken: Working with one roll at a time, dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it completely in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the roll firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring it's fully and evenly coated on all sides.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Sear the Chicken (5-6 mins): In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and foaming. Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the hot skillet, seam-side down. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown all over. Do not crowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Bake to Perfection (25-30 mins): Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken (not the filling).
- 7
Step 7
- a.Rest and Serve (5-10 mins): Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Carefully remove the toothpicks before slicing and serving immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier rolling and to help the chicken hold its shape, chill the assembled rolls in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before breading.
- 2Pound the chicken to an even 1/4-inch thickness. This is the key to ensuring it cooks evenly and rolls up neatly.
- 3Don't overstuff the chicken rolls, as the filling can leak out during cooking. A single layer of cheese and ham is perfect.
- 4Always use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 5Letting the chicken rest before slicing is crucial. It prevents the juices and melted cheese from running out, keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
- 6For extra flavor, brush a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken before adding the ham and cheese.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheese Swap
Instead of Swiss cheese, try using Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, Provolone for a milder taste, or even a slice of pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Ham AlternativesHam Alternatives
Prosciutto offers a saltier, more intense flavor. For a non-pork option, use smoked turkey slices.
Add a SauceAdd a Sauce
Serve with a classic Dijon cream sauce. After baking the chicken, use the same skillet to sauté shallots, deglaze with white wine, then stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard.
Gluten Free VersionGluten-Free Version
To make this gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for dredging and gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds for the coating.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Chicken is a high-quality lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Rich in B Vitamins
This dish provides important B vitamins, particularly Niacin (B3) and B6 from the chicken, which help convert food into energy and support healthy brain function.
Bone Health Support
The Swiss cheese contributes calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are vital for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of this baked Chicken Cordon Bleu contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the exact size of the chicken breast and the amount of breading and oil absorbed.