This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts filled with savory ham and Swiss cheese. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a creamy cheese sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The blend of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
This dish is not just delicious; it’s also practical and versatile.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of juicy chicken, salty ham, and melted Swiss cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or slice it for appetizers at parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Plastic wrap
- Shallow bowls (for coating)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Meat mallet: Helps achieve thin, even slices of chicken for easy rolling.
- Plastic wrap: Keeps the chicken tightly rolled while chilling, maintaining its shape.
- Saucepan: Essential for making the creamy cheese sauce that elevates this dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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:
Ingredients 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
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice and Pound: Split each chicken breast into 3 thin slices. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Stuff and Roll: Lay out 3 pounded chicken slices on plastic wrap. Season with salt and pepper. Layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top. Roll tightly like a jellyroll, wrapping them in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends to secure.
- Chill: Place the rolled chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to help them hold their shape.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Flour: In a shallow bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roll the chicken roulades in the flour to coat.
- Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
- Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow plate, spread out the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper. Roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Place the coated chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spray generously with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter together.
- Add flour; cook for 2 minutes while whisking constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; simmer for one minute.
- Add Parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses; stir until smooth.
Step 5: Serve
Let baked chicken cool for 10 minutes before slicing each roll into pinwheels about 1 inch thick. Drizzle warm cheese sauce over sliced chicken rolls and garnish with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce as an impressive meal that’s sure to please!
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Garnish Ideas
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to your dish.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty contrast to the rich cheese sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Consider using chives or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the cheese sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of the chicken and cheese.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious addition that complements the dish.
Presentation Tips
- Slicing: Slice the chicken into pinwheels for an elegant presentation on the plate.
- Drizzle Sauce: Drizzle cheese sauce over each slice for a visually appealing look.
How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
- bold Use Thin Chicken Slices: Thin slices make rolling easier and help ensure even cooking throughout.
- bold Chill Before Cooking: Chilling the rolls helps them hold their shape and prevents them from unraveling during baking.
- bold Generous Coating: Ensure each chicken roll is fully coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
- bold Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
- bold Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses in your sauce for unique flavor combinations.
- bold Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu while hot and fresh from the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to pair with your Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- bold Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty complement to this dish.
- bold Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs well with cheese sauce.
- bold Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds a healthy and refreshing element to your meal.
- bold Grilled Asparagus: The slight bitterness of grilled asparagus balances out the richness of the chicken.
- bold Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and is a great contrast to creamy sauces.
- bold Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is a classic side that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, be mindful of these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.
- Not Using Thin Chicken Slices: Thick chicken slices can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound your chicken breasts thin for consistent results.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Failing to chill the rolled chicken can cause it to unravel while baking. Always refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before cooking.
- Inadequate Seasoning: Under-seasoned chicken can taste bland. Don’t forget to season each layer generously with salt and pepper.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many chicken rolls on one sheet can trap steam. Space them out to ensure they bake evenly and get crispy.
- Neglecting the Cheese Sauce: A rushed cheese sauce can turn out lumpy. Take your time to whisk continuously while adding milk for a smooth texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Place the dish in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce?
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a classic dish featuring chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then baked and topped with a rich cheese sauce.
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken rolls and refrigerate them for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to a month.
What sauces pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
While cheese sauce is traditional, you can also try mustard cream sauce or a light herb sauce for variation.
How do I customize this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe?
Feel free to substitute different types of cheese or use turkey instead of ham for a lighter version.
Can I air fry Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Absolutely! Air frying gives you a crispy exterior without deep frying. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for dinner parties or family meals. Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to customize it further. Don’t hesitate—try this delightful recipe today!
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce. This classic dish features tender chicken breasts filled with savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese, baked to a golden crisp and generously drizzled with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this delightful meal is both impressive and easy to prepare. With its mouth-watering combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Pound chicken slices thin, season, then layer with ham and Swiss cheese before rolling tightly.
- Chill the rolled chicken for 1-2 hours.
- Coat each roll in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
- Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- For the cheese sauce, melt oil and butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheeses until smooth.
- Slice baked rolls into pinwheels and drizzle with warm cheese sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (180g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
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