This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a real winner! Tender chicken is filled with ham and gooey cheese, then coated in a delicious crispy layer.
The Dijon sauce adds a sweet touch that makes every bite even better. I love serving it with some veggies or rice, and trust me, it doesn’t last long on my dinner table!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts keep it simple, but you can also use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time if using thighs as they may take a bit longer.
Ham: Thinly sliced ham is classic for Cordon Bleu. If you want a healthier option, turkey ham or even prosciutto can work beautifully, giving it a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, but Gruyere offers a nutty flavor that I personally love! If you can’t find either, muenster or even mozzarella could be good substitutes.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs make for an extra crispy coating. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs can work too, but you might want to toast them for more crunch.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a nice tang. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow mustard or even a honey mustard for a sweeter touch!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right can be a concern, but here’s the plan to get it just right:
- After browning in the skillet, transferring to the oven cooks the chicken evenly. Use an oven-safe dish to make this easy!
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It’s the best way to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain juices and keeps the chicken moist when you slice it.
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices ham (preferably thinly sliced)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese or Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Dijon Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 30 minutes of prep time and around 20-30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about an hour to bring it all together. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken Breasts:
Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. This will help it cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
2. Assembling the Cordon Bleu:
On each flattened piece of chicken, lay one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on top. Carefully roll the chicken up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go to keep the filling inside. If needed, secure the rolls with toothpicks to hold everything together.
3. Setting Up Breading Stations:
Next, set up your breading stations. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, crack and beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra flavor.
4. Breading the Chicken Rolls:
Take each chicken roll and first dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Cooking the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken rolls and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
6. Finishing in the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the browned rolls to a baking dish and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melty and gooey.
7. Making the Dijon Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the Dijon sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
8. Adding Flavor to the Sauce:
Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the Dijon mustard and honey. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Keep this warm on low heat until you’re ready to serve.
9. Serving the Dish:
When the chicken is done, remove any toothpicks. You can slice the rolls if desired, and then drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the top. Serve immediately, accompanied by your choice of sides like steamed vegetables or fluffy rice.
Enjoy your crispy creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with that delightful tangy Dijon sauce!
FAQ for Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Dijon Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the chicken’s texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Dijon sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Rice is also a great option to soak up the creamy sauce!
