Chicken Cordon Bleu

The brilliance of this dish lies in its simplicity. This modern twist on Chicken Cordon Bleu skips the fuss of deep-frying and keeps all the savory, indulgent flavor. Inside, melted Swiss cheese hugs delicate slices of ham, wrapped in juicy chicken breast, all coated in a golden, oven-crisped crust. It’s a recipe that feels luxurious, yet it’s easy enough for any weeknight.

Finished with a velvety Dijon cream sauce, this meal is perfect for impressing guests or elevating your family dinner. Serve it with a light green salad or roasted vegetables to let the flavors shine. With its beautiful presentation and deeply satisfying taste, this Chicken Cordon Bleu deserves a spot on your regular rotation.

Full Recipe:

• 2 small chicken breasts (6–7 oz / 180–210 g each)

• 4 slices Swiss cheese

• 4–6 slices ham (about 2.5 oz / 75 g)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (Super Easy method) or 1 cup (Quick Dredge)

• Oil spray

Super Easy Crumbing Method:

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Quick Dredge Crumbing Method:

• 1 egg

• 2 tsp plain flour

Dijon Cream Sauce (makes 1 cup):

• 1 1/2 tbsp butter

• 1 1/2 tbsp flour

• 1 1/4 cups milk (full-fat preferred)

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 3 tbsp parmesan cheese, finely grated

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C) standard / 350°F (180°C) fan.

2. Spread panko on a baking tray, spray with oil, and bake for 3 minutes until golden. Set aside.

3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Fold cheese and ham slices, stuff into the pocket. Secure with toothpicks. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

4. Super Easy Method: Mix mayo and mustard. Spread on top and sides of chicken. Press toasted panko onto coated areas. Spray with oil.

5. Quick Dredge Method: Whisk egg and flour. Dip chicken into mixture, then coat in toasted panko. Spray with oil.

6. Place on baking tray. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.

7. Meanwhile, make sauce: Melt butter, stir in flour. Whisk in half the milk until smooth, then the rest, mustard, and cheese. Simmer for 3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

8. Remove toothpicks, slice, and serve with Dijon cream sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 590 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Timeless Classic

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved dish that has graced dinner tables across the world for decades. With its perfect combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty cheese, it’s no wonder this dish is considered a timeless classic. But there’s more to this dish than just its mouth-watering taste. In this article, we will explore the history of Chicken Cordon Bleu, different ways to make it, serving suggestions, and why this dish continues to be a favorite among home cooks.

The Origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu

The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu are somewhat mysterious, but most culinary experts agree that this dish has French roots. The term “Cordon Bleu” itself means “blue ribbon” in French, which is often used to denote something of superior quality. Traditionally, “Cordon Bleu” referred to a prestigious cooking school in France, the Le Cordon Bleu culinary academy, renowned for producing top-tier chefs.

However, the exact timeline of Chicken Cordon Bleu’s creation is not clear. Some believe the dish was inspired by a Swiss recipe known as “Wiener Schnitzel” or “Schnitzel Cordon Bleu,” a deep-fried veal cutlet filled with cheese and ham. It’s said that in the 1950s, the dish became more widely recognized in America, where chicken was substituted for veal to make it a more affordable and accessible option. From there, it gained popularity in various forms, adapting to local tastes while maintaining its signature flavor.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu

While the traditional method of preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu involves frying, today’s recipes, like the one we’ll explore, offer a healthier and easier alternative by baking the dish instead. The key to a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu is in its simplicity: boneless chicken breasts, thinly sliced ham, and cheese. These elements are stuffed inside the chicken and then coated in breadcrumbs to create a crunchy, golden exterior.

What makes Chicken Cordon Bleu so special is its versatility. You can experiment with different types of cheese such as Swiss, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist. The stuffing can also be adjusted to suit personal preferences, allowing you to swap out the ham for turkey, or use plant-based substitutes for a vegetarian version.

Crumbing Methods: Super Easy vs. Quick Dredge

When it comes to preparing the crumb coating, there are two popular methods to choose from. The Super Easy Method involves smearing a mixture of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on the chicken and sprinkling it with breadcrumbs. This method is quick and simple, producing a lovely golden coating on the top and sides of the chicken.

Alternatively, the Quick Dredge Method is a bit more involved but results in a more evenly coated and perfectly crunchy chicken. In this method, the chicken is dipped in a flour and egg mixture before being coated in breadcrumbs. This extra step ensures that the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken, creating a uniform and satisfying crunch all over.

Both methods have their pros and cons, and the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference for convenience or perfection. If you’re making Chicken Cordon Bleu for a special occasion, the Quick Dredge Method is a great way to impress your guests with its extra crispy coating. However, if you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner on a busy weeknight, the Super Easy Method is an excellent choice.

The Dijon Cream Sauce: A Must-Have Addition

No Chicken Cordon Bleu is complete without the Dijon cream sauce. This sauce is creamy, tangy, and rich, adding an extra layer of flavor that complements the crispy chicken and savory filling. The sauce is made by combining butter, flour, milk, Dijon mustard, and parmesan cheese, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture that beautifully coats the chicken.

While some people may choose to serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with other sauces, the Dijon cream sauce is the classic choice for a reason. Its sharpness from the Dijon mustard balances out the richness of the ham and cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other sauces such as a white wine sauce, or even a tomato-based sauce, but the Dijon cream sauce remains the quintessential accompaniment.

Variations on the Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

One of the great things about Chicken Cordon Bleu is its versatility. While the traditional version uses chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, there are countless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

For example, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can opt for skinless chicken breasts and swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety or crushed nuts. For a paleo or keto version, simply skip the breadcrumbs altogether and coat the chicken with a mixture of almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use turkey or even vegetarian alternatives like tofu or tempeh in place of the ham.

Another variation involves experimenting with different cheeses. While Swiss is the most commonly used cheese in Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can easily switch it out for Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a richer, sharper flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this dish perfect for customizing to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu can be served in many ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. For a complete meal, pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The crispy chicken and creamy sauce are rich enough to complement light, refreshing sides like sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus.

If you’re serving this dish for a special event or holiday gathering, consider adding a festive touch by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest can also add a pop of brightness to balance out the richness of the dish.

Chicken Cordon Bleu: Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or impressing guests at a dinner party, Chicken Cordon Bleu is an excellent choice. It’s an impressive dish that doesn’t require hours of preparation or fancy ingredients. Plus, with so many variations and serving options, it can easily be tailored to fit any dietary needs or preferences.

The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, savory ham, and crispy breadcrumbs makes Chicken Cordon Bleu a crowd-pleaser every time. The best part? It’s just as delicious when baked as it is when deep-fried, offering a healthier option without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that continues to stand the test of time. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting, this recipe delivers all the flavors and textures you love. With its ability to be easily customized and served in various ways, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that will remain a staple in your kitchen for years to come. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, stuffings, or crumbing methods—this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.