Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic, restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, this recipe brings sophistication to your table with minimal effort. The addition of a rich, velvety cheese sauce elevates the dish, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you bake it, pan-fry it, or even air fry it, the results are always golden, crispy, and delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual dinners to holiday celebrations, this recipe fits seamlessly into any menu.
• Customizable: Swap the cheeses or try different cooking methods to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy cheese sauce is universally adored.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet: For flattening chicken breasts evenly.
• Plastic wrap: Helps keep the chicken intact while pounding and rolling.
• Shallow bowls or plates: Ideal for breading the chicken.
• Baking sheet: For baking the chicken rolls evenly.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth and lump-free cheese sauce.
• Saucepan: Necessary for making the creamy cheese sauce.

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet ensures the chicken is thin enough to roll easily.
• Plastic wrap prevents mess during preparation.
• Shallow bowls simplify the breading process, ensuring even coating.
• Whisk is crucial for a silky cheese sauce without clumps.

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Preparation Tips

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: This helps the chicken cook uniformly and makes rolling easier.
• Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the rolled chicken ensures it holds its shape during baking or frying.
• Organize Your Workspace: Set up a breading station with flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs arranged in sequence for efficiency.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (each split into 3 thin slices)
• 8 slices ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (220g) Panko breadcrumbs

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (473ml) whole milk
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard paste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (55g) grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated sharp cheddar cheese

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Slice and Pound:

1. Split each chicken breast into three thin slices for easy rolling.
2. Place the slices between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness.

Stuff and Roll:

1. Lay 3 pounded chicken slices on a sheet of plastic wrap.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Layer with 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese.
4. Roll the chicken tightly into a log shape, using the plastic wrap to secure. Twist the ends of the wrap to hold the roll together.

Chill:

• Refrigerate the chicken rolls for 1-2 hours. This helps them maintain their shape during cooking.

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2. Coat the Chicken

Flour:

1. Combine all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper in a shallow bowl.
2. Dredge the chicken rolls in the flour, shaking off the excess.

Egg Wash:

1. Beat eggs in a second shallow bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the egg mixture, coating them evenly.

Breadcrumbs:

1. Spread Panko breadcrumbs on a plate, seasoning lightly for extra flavor.
2. Roll the egg-coated chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.

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3. Bake the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
3. Place the breadcrumb-coated chicken rolls on the sheet and spray generously with cooking spray.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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4. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Stir in seasonings: garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Add Parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar cheese. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Remove from heat.

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5. Serve

1. Let the baked chicken rolls rest for 10 minutes to lock in their juices.
2. Slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels for a beautiful presentation.
3. Drizzle with the warm cheese sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Chicken Cordon Bleu with the right sides takes this dish from delightful to unforgettable. Here are some perfect side dish options that complement the crispy chicken and creamy cheese sauce:

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1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic create the perfect foundation for soaking up the rich cheese sauce.

• Tip: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture.
• Variation: Add sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.

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2. Steamed Green Beans with Almonds

Bright and tender green beans bring a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your plate.

• Tip: Toast the almonds lightly in butter for a nutty, aromatic touch.
• Variation: Drizzle with a hint of lemon juice for added zest.

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3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a savory, slightly sweet contrast to the rich chicken and cheese.

• Tip: Toss with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of Parmesan before roasting.
• Variation: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.

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4. Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

A fresh salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the main dish.

• Tip: Include arugula or spinach for a peppery note.
• Variation: Top with crumbled feta or blue cheese for added depth.

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5. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up every last drop of the cheese sauce.

• Tip: Brush with melted garlic butter for an irresistible aroma.
• Variation: Serve warm with a side of herb butter or honey butter.

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6. Lemon Rice Pilaf

This light, citrusy rice dish enhances the flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.

• Tip: Sauté the rice in butter before cooking for a nutty flavor.
• Variation: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

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7. Grilled Asparagus

Charred asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper provide a smoky, earthy complement.

• Tip: Grill until slightly tender but still crisp for the best texture.
• Variation: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

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8. Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Rich and velvety mushroom risotto mirrors the creamy textures of the cheese sauce while adding umami.

• Tip: Use Arborio rice and slowly stir in warm broth for perfect consistency.
• Variation: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon for added complexity.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistake 1: Rolling the Chicken Incorrectly

• Problem: If the chicken isn’t rolled tightly, it can unravel during cooking.
• Solution: Use plastic wrap to help roll the chicken tightly. Chill the rolls for at least 1-2 hours to set their shape.

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Mistake 2: Uneven Coating

• Problem: Uneven breading can lead to a patchy, inconsistent crust.
• Solution: Thoroughly dredge the chicken in flour, then coat evenly with egg and breadcrumbs. Press breadcrumbs gently to adhere.

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Mistake 3: Overcooking or Undercooking

• Problem: Overcooked chicken is dry, while undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat.
• Solution: Use a meat thermometer and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Mistake 4: Lumpy Cheese Sauce

• Problem: Improper whisking can result in a grainy or lumpy sauce.
• Solution: Whisk constantly while adding milk to the roux, and ensure the cheese is added off the heat for a smooth texture.

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Mistake 5: Skipping the Resting Period

• Problem: Slicing the chicken too soon can cause it to lose juices and fall apart.
• Solution: Let the cooked rolls rest for 10 minutes before slicing into pinwheels.

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Perfecting the Recipe

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken, flavorful ham, and good-quality cheeses for the best results.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning during every step for well-rounded flavor.
• Experiment with Variations: Swap out Swiss cheese for Gruyère or ham for prosciutto to make it your own.

Recipe Tips, Storage, and Reheating Instructions

Pro Tips for Success

1. Keep Ingredients Chilled: Work with cold ham and cheese to prevent them from melting or sliding out during cooking.
2. Use Toothpicks for Extra Security: If you’re worried about the rolls unraveling, insert a toothpick into each roll before breading. Remove it before serving.
3. Double-Bread for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunchy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more before baking.
4. Customize the Sauce: Add a touch of white wine or Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for a gourmet twist.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing:
  • Uncooked Rolls: Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
  • Cooked Rolls: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Allow to thaw completely before reheating.

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Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method (Best for Crispiness):
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
   • Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
2. Microwave (Quick Option):
   • Place slices of chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
   • Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
   • Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
3. Cheese Sauce Reheating:
   • Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking continuously. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness. Be sure to pound them thin and trim any excess fat for even cooking.

2. What can I substitute for ham?

You can use turkey, prosciutto, or even bacon for a smoky flavor.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond or rice flour.

4. Why is my cheese sauce separating?

This happens if the cheese is added at too high a temperature. Always add the cheese off the heat and stir until just melted.

5. How do I prevent soggy breading?

Ensure the chicken rolls are coated evenly and bake on a wire rack to allow airflow around the rolls. If frying, use hot oil (around 350°F or 175°C).

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Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a timeless dish that brings restaurant-level flavor to your home kitchen. With its crispy breading, tender chicken, savory ham, gooey cheese filling, and rich sauce, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. By following the tips, serving suggestions, and variations provided in this guide, you can make this classic recipe your own.