Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu is a crisp, golden chicken breast stuffed with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, then baked or fried to delicious perfection. It’s an elegant yet approachable dish with a satisfying crunch, rich flavor, and irresistible gooey center—ideal for special dinners, entertaining, or adding a gourmet touch to your weeknight meals.

ingredients

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

boneless skinless chicken breastssaltblack pepperthinly sliced hamSwiss cheese slicesflourlarge eggsbreadcrumbs (preferably panko)olive oil or melted buttermustard or Dijon mustard (optional for sauce)buttergarlic (optional for sauce)heavy cream or milkParmesan cheese (for optional sauce)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Pound chicken breasts to about 1/4-inch thickness between two pieces of plastic wrap.

Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.

Roll up tightly, tucking in the sides. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Set up a breading station: dredge each roll in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.

For extra crispiness, drizzle with olive oil or brush with melted butter.

Place rolls seam-side down in the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Optional: While baking, make a simple creamy mustard sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, adding garlic (if using), whisking in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened.

Serve chicken hot with sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use provolone or mozzarella for a different cheesy filling.

Add a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb coating.

Use prosciutto instead of ham for a more refined flavor.

Fry the breaded rolls in oil for a more traditional crispy finish.

Serve with lemon wedges for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through (to keep the coating crispy).Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crust.

FAQs

Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to a day in advance before baking.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Swiss is classic, but Gruyère or provolone work well too.

Do I have to pound the chicken?

Yes, it ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

What if the cheese leaks out?

Make sure to roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Can I air fry Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes, cook at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze assembled (uncooked) rolls on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cook time.

How do I get a super crispy crust?

Use panko breadcrumbs and bake uncovered, or finish with a quick broil.

Can I skip the sauce?

Yes, it’s optional, but it adds extra flavor and elegance.

What should I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, salad, or rice pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu is a show-stopping dish that combines crispy coating, juicy chicken, salty ham, and melty cheese into one irresistible roll. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this classic recipe is sure to impress with its flavor and presentation. Add it to your rotation and enjoy gourmet-style dining at home.