This Chicken Cordon Bleu is a fun mix of crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and delicious ham, all rolled up together. Drizzle it with a tasty Dijon sauce for extra zing!
This dish never fails to impress. I like serving it with a side of veggies for a balanced meal. Plus, it makes me feel like a chef, even if I am just in my kitchen! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish since they cook quickly and stay tender. You can use turkey cutlets as a leaner alternative, or even thin slices of pork if preferred.
Ham: I like using deli ham, but you can use prosciutto for a more gourmet feel. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider substituting with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms or spinach with cheese.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional, giving that gooey texture. Gruyère is a fantastic alternative for a richer flavor. For a non-dairy option, try a nut-based cheese or a good melting vegan cheese.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for extra crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but try to toast them lightly for more texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great option if you need to avoid gluten.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Breaded?
Getting a good breading on your chicken is a crucial step for that satisfying crunch. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly coated:
- Set up three shallow dishes: one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
- First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it’s fully covered. This step helps the egg adhere better.
- Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mix.
- Finally, coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to make sure they stick nicely.
One little tip: If you can let the breaded chicken sit for about 15 minutes before cooking, it helps the coating adhere even better during frying!
How Can I Make the Dijon Sauce Creamy?
The Dijon sauce is a star of this dish, and making it creamy is easy if you follow a few steps:
- After sautéing shallots and garlic until tender, pour in heavy cream and stir. This forms the base of your sauce.
- Incorporate the Dijon mustard (and whole grain mustard, if using) and whisk until smooth. Don’t forget to adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper!
- Keep the sauce on low heat to avoid curdling the cream; stirring continuously will help it thicken evenly.
For a little twist, you could add a splash of white wine before adding the cream for enhanced flavor. This sauce pairs wonderfully with many other dishes, too!
How to Make Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp whole grain mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu will take about 20 minutes to prep and roughly 15-20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 40-45 minutes. It’s a quick yet impressive meal perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
First, lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each breast (slicing horizontally, but not cutting all the way through) so it opens like a book. Then, pound gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Assemble:
Now, take a slice of ham and a slice of cheese, and place them inside each butterflied chicken breast. Fold the chicken over carefully, making sure the ham and cheese are enclosed. If needed, secure them with toothpicks to keep everything together while cooking.
3. Prepare Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow dishes: one filled with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; the second with beaten eggs; and the third with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each stuffed chicken breast and dredge it first in the seasoned flour (shake off any excess), then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly to ensure they stick well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. To ensure they are fully cooked, check with a meat thermometer that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
6. Make the Dijon Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add some butter and sauté the minced shallot and garlic until they are fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream along with the Dijon mustards. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the sauce is slightly thickened, around 3-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
7. Serve:
Once the chicken is ready, make sure to remove any toothpicks. Place the chicken on serving plates and generously spoon the creamy Dijon sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
8. Enjoy Immediately:
Serve your crispy creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu with sides like steamed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
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This recipe gives you a wonderfully crispy coating, a deliciously creamy cheese center, and a tangy mustard sauce that elevates the entire meal. Perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying a comforting night in!
FAQ: Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Dijon Sauce
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can easily substitute it with Gruyère for a richer flavor. For a twist, try mozzarella for extra gooeyness, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Meal?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to enhance the meal.
How Do I Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, it’s best to do so in the oven to maintain crispness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking tray, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving to brighten it up again!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This can save you time on the day of serving. Just remember to cook them longer if they’re coming straight from the fridge!
