Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that never goes out of style. This indulgent recipe brings together crispy chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to bake or fry it, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver delicious, comforting flavors that will satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of crispy breaded chicken with melted cheese and ham inside is pure perfection. Top it off with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce for extra flavor, or enjoy it without—either way, you’ll love every bite. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. So, if you’re ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a timeless classic, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

2. Versatile Cooking Methods

You can choose to bake or fry your Chicken Cordon Bleu, offering flexibility for different preferences and time constraints.

3. Easy to Customize

While the traditional ham and Swiss cheese filling is classic, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, such as using different cheeses or adding spices.

4. Comfort Food at Its Best

This recipe is the definition of comfort food, providing a crispy, golden exterior with a rich, melty interior that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

5. Simple to Make Yet Impressive

Despite its elegant presentation, Chicken Cordon Bleu is easy to prepare and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Ingredients

For Chicken Cordon Bleu:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Black pepper
Thin slices of ham
Thin slices of Swiss cheese
All-purpose flour
Egg
Water
Plain bread crumbs
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce (optional):

Butter
Cornstarch
Milk
Dijon mustard
Brown sugar
Apple cider vinegar

Variations

Cheese Swap: You can swap the Swiss cheese for other types like mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère to add your own twist to the flavor.
Meat Alternatives: If you don’t have ham, try turkey or even prosciutto for a different taste.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumbs or sauce for a spicy twist.
Baked Version: If you prefer a healthier version, bake the chicken instead of frying it, brushing it with a little olive oil for that crispy texture.
Vegetarian: Replace the ham with roasted vegetables or a vegetarian meat alternative to make a vegetarian version of this dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by laying the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast.

Step 2: Roll and Secure

Roll each chicken breast tightly, ensuring the ham and cheese are fully enclosed. Use toothpicks to secure the rolls, ensuring they hold their shape while cooking.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, mix flour and breadcrumbs. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water. First, dip the chicken rolls into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and coat them again with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 4: Fry or Bake the Chicken

For frying, heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken rolls for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce (Optional)

While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in cornstarch and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. Gradually add milk, dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar, whisking until smooth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the toothpicks and drizzle with the creamy Dijon mustard sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Pounding the Chicken: For even cooking, you can lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before rolling them.
Use Toothpicks Carefully: Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ham and Swiss cheese.
Rest the Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Check Internal Temperature: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

How to Serve

Chicken Cordon Bleu is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. For a more indulgent meal, pair it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a buttery risotto. If you made the Dijon mustard sauce, serve it alongside to drizzle over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crispy coating intact, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked Chicken Cordon Bleu rolls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I bake Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake it! Simply place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

2. What is the best way to ensure the cheese melts properly inside?

Make sure the chicken is rolled tightly to keep the cheese from leaking out during cooking. You can also secure the rolls with toothpicks.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Some great alternatives are mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar.

4. Is it necessary to make the Dijon mustard sauce?

No, the mustard sauce is optional. The chicken is delicious on its own, but the sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great for this recipe and offer more moisture.

6. Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

7. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming too dry?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C).

8. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chicken rolls for up to 3 months. Bake or fry from frozen.

9. What sides go well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad are excellent choices to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make the dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether you bake or fry it, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and guests. With its crispy exterior, tender chicken, and delicious ham and cheese filling, it’s a meal everyone will love. Plus, the optional Dijon mustard sauce adds a delightful tangy finish that elevates the dish even further. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a recipe worth making.