I can hardly contain my excitement to share this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe with you! This dish is like a fancy restaurant meal but super easy to prepare at home. I remember the first time I made this: I was hosting a dinner party for a few close friends, and I wanted to impress them with my cooking skills. I was nervous, but as I pulled this beauty out of the oven, the looks on their faces made all the effort worth it. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy ham simply stole the show!
The creamy Swiss cheese sauce is the cherry on top, taking this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s rich, dreamy, and perfect for drenching over your perfectly baked chicken. So, if you’re ready to wow your family or friends (or yourself, let’s be honest), let’s dive right into how to make this scrumptious Chicken Cordon Bleu!
What’s in Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce?
Chicken Breasts: The main event! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and ease of preparation.
Ham: This adds a savory layer. Go for a quality sliced ham, like Black Forest or smoked ham, for a nice flavor boost.
Swiss Cheese: The star of our creamy sauce! A good quality Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds that irresistible creamy texture.
Breadcrumbs: They create the perfect crunchy coating. I love using Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness, but regular breadcrumbs work too.
Flour and Eggs: This is for the classic breading process that helps the breadcrumbs adhere beautifully to the chicken.
Butter and Cream: We’ll use these ingredients to create our luscious cheese sauce. Make sure to use real butter and heavy cream for the best results!
Is Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Good for You?
When it comes to indulging in delicious home-cooked meals, Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a delightful choice, but like many comfort foods, it’s heavy on calories and fat.
Chicken Breasts: They are a great source of lean protein, which is perfect for muscle maintenance and repair.
Ham: While tasty, keep in mind that it can be high in sodium, so if you’re watching your salt intake, consider opting for a low-sodium version.
Swiss Cheese: This yummy cheese contains calcium and protein, which are essential for strong bones and overall health, but it also adds to the calorie count, so moderation is key.
Overall, while it’s not the healthiest dish out there, enjoying Chicken Cordon Bleu in moderation can certainly contribute to a balanced diet filled with happiness and comfort!
Ingredients List
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 4 slices of quality sliced ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce?
1. **Prep the chicken:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This makes them tender and helps to cook evenly.
2. **Layer the goodness:** Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll them up tightly, starting from one end, and secure with toothpicks.
3. **Breading station:** Set up your breading station with three dishes – one for flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
4. **Coat the chicken:** Dip each chicken roll first into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with Panko breadcrumbs. This gives you that nice, crispy outer layer!
5. **Pan-fry:** In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
6. **Bake:** Transfer the chicken rolls to a greased baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
7. **Make the cheese sauce:** In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute until bubbly. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Add in the Swiss cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. **Serve:** Once the chicken is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it for beautiful presentation. Drizzle the creamy Swiss cheese sauce over the chicken rolls and garnish with parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions for a Memorable Meal!
To make this meal extra special, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. I also love pairing it with some buttery mashed potatoes or a zesty lemon rice to soak up that luscious cheese sauce. And don’t forget to pour yourself a nice glass of white wine – it’s the perfect complement to this delightful dish!
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce! It’s such a comforting and satisfying meal that I know you and your loved ones will adore. If you give it a go, please share your experience or any fun tweaks you made; I’d love to hear all about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
