This crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu is a tasty treat! It features juicy chicken stuffed with ham and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy coating. Yum!
The tangy Dijon sauce adds a perfect zing that takes this dish to the next level. I love serving it with some veggies on the side—easy to make, and it’s a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for easy rolling and even cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs can work too, bringing more flavor and juiciness.
Ham & Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic here, but Gruyère offers a richer flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey ham or smoked chicken is a good substitute for the ham.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a crispier texture. You can use regular breadcrumbs, but for crunch, try crushing up crackers like Ritz or using crushed cornflakes as an alternative.
Tangy Dijon Sauce: For a lighter version, swap mayo for Greek yogurt. If you want a milder sauce, use yellow mustard instead of Dijon, though it’ll change the flavor profile slightly.
How Can I Get the Chicken Crispy Without Drying It Out?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture while keeping the chicken juicy, ensure you follow these steps carefully:
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness; this helps it cook evenly and remain tender.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly: After dipping in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, press down to make sure every part is covered.
- While frying, don’t overcrowd the skillet. This helps maintain the heat and keeps the chicken crispy.
- Bake the chicken in the oven just until cooked through—about 20-25 minutes—using a meat thermometer as guide; 165°F is the safe internal temp.
By managing cooking times and temperatures, you can ensure a crispy outside and a creamy inside every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Tangy Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Tangy Dijon Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be making deliciously crispy chicken cordon bleu in about 45 to 50 minutes total. It’s simple, quick, and absolutely satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it is about 1/4 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
2. Season and Stuff:
Next, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts to add flavor. Lay one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on top of each chicken breast. Now, carefully roll up each breast tightly, making sure to tuck in the ends to keep all the delicious filling inside!
3. Breading the Chicken:
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press lightly so the breadcrumbs stick well!
4. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken rolls. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step; the golden crust is key!
5. Baking and Making the Sauce:
After frying, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. While the chicken is baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl to make your tangy Dijon sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it and serve hot with a generous drizzle or a side of your tangy Dijon sauce. Enjoy this crispy, creamy delight!
Dig into your crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just keep in mind that the melting quality may vary with different cheeses.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Brands like almond flour or chickpea flour work well for dredging, and crushed gluten-free crackers can substitute breadcrumbs nicely!
Can I Prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken rolls ahead of time! Assemble them, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they go in from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a heartier meal!
