This tasty blend of juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful ham makes this Chicken Cordon Bleu taste just like something from a fancy restaurant. When you break through the crunchy coating, you'll find perfectly done chicken wrapped with Swiss cheese and ham inside - it's both fancy-looking and super comforting to eat.
While training as a cook in France, I fell in love with making Cordon Bleu. The moment I got that perfect golden outside with melty cheese inside, I knew I'd found something truly wonderful.
Must-Have Ingredients Overview
Chicken Breasts: Pick same-sized boneless cuts for best results
Swiss Cheese: The classic pick that melts beautifully
Ham: Grab thin-sliced, good quality for easy rolling
Panko Breadcrumbs: Gives you that extra crunch factor
Fresh Herbs: Makes both taste and looks better
Dijon Mustard: Brings richness to your sauce
Crafting Delicious Cordon Bleu
Get Your Chicken Ready
Beat the breasts flat so they cook the same all over.
Stack Ingredients Carefully
Put cheese and ham in the right spots for rolling.
Roll It Tight
Make a firm roll and hold it with toothpicks.
Bread It Right
Do the coating steps in order for best crunch.
Cook To Perfection
Watch the heat closely for just-right doneness.
PinChicken Cordon Bleu Recipe | chefemmakitchen.com
My cooking teacher in France always told me, 'Take your time for perfect Cordon Bleu.' After making it hundreds of times, I can tell you he was right.
Tasty Serving Ideas
Pair with smooth mashed potatoes, bright green asparagus, or a simple green salad. For fancy dinners, whip up some creamy Dijon sauce to go with it.
Fun Twists To Try
Switch things up by using other cheese types, swapping ham for prosciutto, or mixing herbs into the filling. Want something lighter? Try baking it instead of frying.
Keeping It Fresh
You can keep the uncooked, breaded rolls in your fridge for a day. After cooking, they'll stay good for two days - just warm them slowly in the oven.
Over many years making this dish, I've learned that the little details really matter. When you take care with each step, you'll end up with a dish that brings a touch of French class to any meal.
PinEasy Chicken Cordon Bleu | chefemmakitchen.com
Recipe Questions & Answers
→ Can this be made ahead?
Absolutely! Prep the chicken rolls earlier, then coat with breadcrumbs and refrigerate. Cook fresh before eating.
→ How can I stop the crust from falling off?
Chill your breaded chicken rolls first. Press the crumbs on well to make sure they stick better.
→ Is it possible to bake this instead of frying?
Of course! Spray with oil and bake at 375°F for about half an hour. You’ll still enjoy it, even without the golden crust.
→ How can I tell it’s fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—if it hits 165°F at the thickest part, it’s good to go!
→ Can I switch to another cheese?
Definitely! Mozzarella or provolone melts well inside, and cheddar adds great flavor to the sauce.
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu
Crispy chicken stuffed with ham and Swiss, paired with cheesy Dijon sauce that's rich and smooth.
Wrap each chicken breast in plastic, smash to 1/4-inch thickness, and season it. Lay down ham and Swiss cheese, roll it snug, cover in plastic, and chill for 30-60 minutes.
Step 02
Take three bowls and arrange flour, whisked eggs, and panko breadcrumbs with seasonings into separate dishes. Heat oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with foil.
Step 03
Dunk rolls in flour, then coat with egg, and finish with panko breadcrumbs. Deep-fry in 350°F hot oil for around 5 minutes, flipping to brown all over.
Step 04
Pop the fried rolls onto the foil-lined tray. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, making sure they hit 165°F inside.
Step 05
Cook butter and flour together, pour in milk, and mix it up with the spices. Simmer till thick, then stir in Parmesan and Gruyere until smooth. Spoon the sauce over the rolls before serving.
Additional Notes
You can assemble earlier and chill in the fridge
To cut calories, bake instead of frying
Pound chicken evenly for better rolling
Tools You'll Need
Plastic wrap
Malting hammer
Oven tray
Pan for frying
Three shallow plates
Small thermometer for meat
Sauce-making pot
Allergy Information
Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
Contains dairy (cheese, milk)
Made with wheat (flour, breading crumbs)
Eggs are included
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.