Looking for the perfect dinner recipe that’s both indulgent and impressive? This Crispy, Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu ticks all the boxes! Tender chicken breast rolled with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, coated in golden breadcrumbs, and paired with a velvety Dijon cream sauce. This dish delivers on flavor, texture, and elegance, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 16 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ lb thinly sliced ham
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Peanut or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch.
2. Layer and Roll
- Remove plastic wrap and layer each chicken breast with 2 slices of Swiss cheese, 2 slices of ham, and repeat with another layer of each.
- Roll each chicken breast tightly and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the shape.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Preheat oil in a tall-sided pan to 325°F (170°C).
- Prepare three dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
4. Fry to Perfection
- Fry the breaded chicken rolls for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- If the center isn’t fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C), transfer to a wire rack and finish in a 325°F oven.
5. Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened, then remove from heat.
6. Serve
- Slice the chicken rolls and arrange them on a plate.
- Drizzle generously with the Dijon cream sauce. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Pound the chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Chill Before Frying: Chilling the chicken rolls helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese from oozing out.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 325°F for a crispy crust without overcooking.
- Finish in the Oven: If needed, transfer to the oven to fully cook while keeping the exterior perfectly crisp.
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère, mozzarella, or Havarti.
- Ham Alternatives: Use prosciutto, smoked turkey, or bacon for a twist.
- Baked Version: For a lighter option, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Stuffed Additions: Add spinach, fresh herbs, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
- Make Ahead: Prepare chicken rolls and freeze before frying. Thaw overnight before cooking.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm chicken in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Reheat sauce gently on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This Crispy, Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a showstopper, perfect for elevating your dinner table. With its irresistible blend of textures and flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. Give it a try for your next family meal or special occasion—your taste buds will thank you!