Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese. Wrapped in a crunchy breadcrumb coating and drizzled with a rich creamy Dijon sauce, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner at home. The combination of flavors and textures makes it stand out, ensuring that every bite is a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience that will impress anyone at the dinner table.
• Impressive Presentation: With its beautiful golden crust and creamy sauce, this dish looks as good as it tastes—perfect for entertaining guests.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it with fresh vegetables or over mashed potatoes, making it suitable for various sides or occasions.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make preparing this elegant meal simple, even for novice cooks.
• Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the chicken rolls in advance, saving time on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools to make preparing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Deep frying pan
• Three mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Used to pound the chicken to an even thickness for tender results.
• Deep frying pan: Essential for achieving the perfect crispy coating during frying.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth creamy Dijon sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ lb ham, thinly sliced
• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs (100 g)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (480 mL)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (60 g)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (100 g)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat evenly on both sides.

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Pound it down to about ½ inch (1 cm) thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Remove the plastic wrap from each chicken breast. Layer them as follows:

1. Place 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the chicken breast.
2. Add 2 slices of ham on top of the cheese.
3. Add another layer of Swiss cheese and ham.
4. Roll the chicken tightly and wrap it in plastic wrap; twist and tie the ends securely.

Repeat these steps for all remaining chicken breasts and refrigerate them for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

While waiting for the chicken to set:

1. Preheat a deep pan with about 2 inches (5 cm) of oil to 325°F (170°C).
2. Set up three bowls: one filled with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.

Dredge each chilled chicken roll first in flour, then in egg, followed by breadcrumbs ensuring an even coat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Fry each chicken roll in hot oil:

1. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
2. If not cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C), transfer them onto a wire rack over a baking sheet.
3. Finish cooking in a preheated oven at 325°F (170°C) until fully done.

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:

1. Melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until soft.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute until slightly golden.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened and simmering.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice each chicken roll carefully and drizzle generously with creamy Dijon sauce.

Pair this delicious dish with fresh vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and complements the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful side.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a light balance.

Serve with Starch

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious Dijon sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can serve as a mild base for the dish.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can be a great addition for those who love carbs.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be served warm to complement the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu, consider these useful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded evenly for consistent cooking and tenderness.
• Chill Before Frying: Chilling the rolled chicken helps it maintain its shape during frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 325°F ensures a crispy exterior while cooking the chicken thoroughly.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, they pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender beans add color and freshness to your plate.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs creates a light and flavorful accompaniment.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts bring a nutty flavor that complements the dish well.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad adds texture and nutrition alongside the rich chicken.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw balances out the creaminess of the main dish with its crisp texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu to perfection. Here are some pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Inconsistent Thickness: Not pounding the chicken evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure each chicken breast is about ½ inch thick for uniform results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can result in bland flavor. Always season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and spices before assembling.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many rolls at once lowers the oil temperature, causing soggy breading. Fry in batches to maintain crispiness.
• Underestimating Cooking Time: Assuming the chicken is done without checking internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting the Sauce: Preparing the sauce too late can lead to cold or improperly combined flavors. Start making the creamy Dijon sauce while frying the chicken for optimal timing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing it.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and reheat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious dish made with tender chicken breasts filled with ham and Swiss cheese, topped with a rich creamy Dijon sauce.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes! You can bake your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

This dish pairs well with fresh vegetables, green salads, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Feel free to experiment by using different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella, or adding spinach or mushrooms inside the rolls for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is not just a delightful dish; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it easily by changing up the cheeses or adding your favorite herbs. Try this recipe at home and impress your family or guests!