Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu

Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a healthier take on the classic French dish, featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and gooey melted cheese, all coated in crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content while still delivering great flavor.
• Elegant yet Easy: Looks sophisticated but comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
• Customizable: You can adapt the stuffing or breading to suit your taste preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, crispy layers make this dish a hit with all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts
• Slices of ham
• Swiss or Gruyere cheese slices
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil spray

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ¼ inch, using a meat mallet.
3. Lay a slice of ham and cheese on each chicken breast. Roll tightly, securing with toothpicks.
4. Set up a breading station: one plate with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
5. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
6. Place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the prepared dish. Lightly spray with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden.
8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Try mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Breadcrumbs: Substitute regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for panko.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Seasoned Coating: Add garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the breading from becoming soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

2. What’s the best way to flatten chicken breasts?

Use a meat mallet or rolling pin between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.

3. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey breast cutlets are a great substitute for chicken.

4. Do I have to use toothpicks?

While toothpicks help secure the rolls, you can also use kitchen twine or place the seam-side down during baking.

5. How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent options.

7. Can I freeze baked chicken cordon bleu?

Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen.

8. How do I keep the breadcrumbs crispy?

Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil before baking and avoid overcrowding the pan.

9. Is Dijon mustard necessary?

No, but it adds a subtle tanginess to the dish. You can omit it if desired.

10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu offers the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors, all in a healthier baked version. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress while being easy enough for anyone to make. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying meal!

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