Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Welcome to a culinary journey where elegance meets comfort in this delectable recipe for Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu. Elevating the classic French dish with a healthier twist, this recipe promises a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. Picture perfectly baked chicken breasts enveloping layers of savory Black Forest ham and Swiss Gruyere cheese, all nestled within a crispy Parmesan panko crust that promises the perfect crunch with every bite.

What sets this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu apart is the attention to detail in every step, ensuring a foolproof method that delivers exceptional results. From the honey-Dijon wash that imparts a delectable flavor to the meticulously crafted Dijon cream sauce that ties everything together, this dish is a true masterpiece of flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between gourmet sophistication and approachable simplicity.

Indulge in a culinary experience that marries tradition with innovation, where each bite unveils a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. From toasting the panko for that golden crunch to mastering the art of proper rolling to prevent cheese leakage, this recipe is a labor of love that promises to delight your senses and impress your guests. Get ready to savor the magic of Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu – a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Quick Benefits

• The toasted panko coating provides all the satisfying crunch of traditional fried versions without the mess and extra calories
• Each component of the dish complements the others perfectly – from the subtle tang of the Dijon in the creamy sauce to the nutty notes of the Gruyere cheese
• Despite its elegant presentation, the recipe is surprisingly forgiving for home cooks and offers numerous opportunities for personalization
• Investing in good quality ingredients like Gruyere Swiss cheese and Black Forest ham elevates the dish, while toasting the panko ensures a superior texture

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe Recipe

• Elevated Classic Dish: Transform simple chicken breasts into an impressive dinner with thoughtful layering of ham and Swiss Gruyere cheese, creating a restaurant-quality experience at home.
• Crispy and Flavorful: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of a toasted panko coating that rivals traditional fried versions without extra mess or calories.
• Perfect Flavor Harmony: Indulge in the nutty depth of Gruyere cheese, subtle tang of Dijon in the creamy sauce, and smoky notes from Black Forest ham, all perfectly complementing each other.
• Forgiving Yet Impressive: Impress guests with an elegant presentation that’s surprisingly forgiving for home cooks, offering room for personalization and adaptation.
• Pro Tips for Success: Learn essential techniques like proper rolling to prevent cheese leakage, resting the chicken for optimal texture, and toasting panko for visual appeal and crunch.
• Make-Ahead and Storage Options: With comprehensive guidance on make-ahead and storage, this dish is perfect for special occasions and practical for meal prep, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
• Memorable Dining Experience: Delight guests with a visually appealing dish that offers a perfect contrast of textures, making any occasion feel special and memorable.

Ingredients for Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Chicken Rolls

• 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded Swiss Gruyere cheese
• 8 slices (12 ounces) deli cut Black Forest ham (like Boars Head)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Toothpicks
• 4 medium chicken breasts (6-7 oz. each)

Panko Breading

• 1/2 teaspoon EACH dried parsley, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon EACH salt, pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Dijon Wash

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dijon Cream Sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon EACH salt, pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk or half and half mixed with 1 TBS cornstarch)
• 1 cup LOW SODIUM chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH dried basil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Pro Tips for Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

To ensure your Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu turns out perfectly, make sure to choose high-quality ingredients such as air-chilled chicken breasts, thinly sliced Black Forest ham, and freshly shredded Gruyere Swiss cheese. These ingredients will elevate the flavors and textures of the dish.

When preparing the chicken rolls, take your time to roll them tightly to prevent cheese leakage during baking. Ensuring the chicken is thin enough before rolling and allowing the rolled chicken to rest before slicing will help create a beautiful presentation and delicious results.

For a flawless finish, remember to toast the panko breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. This simple step enhances the texture and appearance of the dish, providing a satisfying crunch without the need for deep-frying. Mastering these techniques will help you achieve restaurant-quality results with this impressive yet approachable recipe.

How to Make Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place a baking rack on a rimmed baking sheet and lightly coat with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Step 02

Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or can.

Step 3: Step 03

Place 2 slices of ham on top of each chicken breast. Add a heaping 1/4 cup of shredded cheese down the center of the ham, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all sides.

Step 4: Step 04

Roll up the chicken tightly from the smaller end, folding the ham over the cheese at the end to prevent any cheese from oozing out, then secure with toothpicks.

Step 5: Step 05

Melt unsalted butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add panko and stir to coat until golden brown. Transfer to a large shallow dish and cool. Stir in Parmesan and breading spices.

Step 6: Step 06

In a large shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Coat each chicken roll evenly with the mixture.

Step 7: Step 07

Coat the rolls in the breading, ensuring all sides are covered. Place on the prepared baking rack with space between each roll.

Step 8: Step 08

Bake chicken at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, about 30-35 minutes. Check the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking and cover with foil if needed to avoid over-browning. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 9: Step 09

After resting the chicken, combine all sauce ingredients in a large saucepan and whisk together. Bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened. The sauce may seem thin at first but will thicken upon cooling.

Step 10: Step 10

Pour the Dijon Cream Sauce over the sliced chicken and garnish with parsley, if desired.

Storage Tips

After preparing Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their quality. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to help retain the crispy texture of the panko coating. Microwave reheating may result in a loss of crunchiness.

To freeze Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu for longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen leftovers can be enjoyed within 1-2 months for the best quality. When ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven to ensure the best texture and flavor.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu even after it has been prepared, allowing you to savor this impressive dish at your convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in the Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe, consider using turkey breast cutlets or pork loin slices as alternatives to chicken breasts. These options can provide a similar texture and flavor profile while accommodating personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

In place of Black Forest ham, try using prosciutto or Canadian bacon for a different flavor profile. These alternatives can still offer a savory and slightly smoky taste that complements the chicken and cheese filling. Additionally, smoked turkey slices can be a suitable substitute for a lighter option.

If Swiss Gruyere cheese is not available, Emmental or Fontina cheese can be used as substitutes. These cheeses also melt well and provide a nutty flavor that complements the dish. Be sure to shred the cheese yourself for the best melting consistency and flavor.

When it comes to the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used as alternatives. While the texture may vary slightly, toasting these substitutes before coating the chicken can help achieve a crispy exterior. Additionally, adding a pinch of seasoning or grated Parmesan to the coating mixture can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant dinner party presentation, serve the Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu sliced into medallions and arranged on a platter garnished with fresh parsley. Drizzle the velvety Dijon cream sauce over the top for a luxurious finishing touch that adds a pop of flavor and visual appeal. Pair this dish with a side of roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

To create a more casual yet equally delicious meal, consider assembling the Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu into individual portions and serving them alongside a medley of roasted vegetables for a colorful and wholesome plate. The interactive aspect of personal servings allows guests to savor the layers of ham and cheese tucked inside each chicken roll, enhancing the dining experience. Don’t forget to offer extra Dijon cream sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over the chicken and veggies for added indulgence.

FAQs for Delicious Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

While Swiss Gruyere cheese is traditionally used for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the dish.

How can I prevent cheese leakage when making Chicken Cordon Bleu?

To prevent cheese leakage, make sure to roll the chicken tightly around the ham and cheese filling. Additionally, ensure the chicken is thin enough for easy rolling and secure the rolls with toothpicks before baking.

Can I prepare the Dijon cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the Dijon cream sauce can be made up to two days ahead. Simply store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before serving. This make-ahead option helps streamline the cooking process on the day you plan to serve the dish.

What is the importance of toasting the panko breadcrumbs in this recipe?

Toasting the panko breadcrumbs before applying them to the chicken helps enhance their crunch and golden color, resulting in a crispier coating. This step not only improves the texture of the dish but also adds visual appeal to the final presentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings the elegance of French cuisine to your dinner table. With attention to detail and quality ingredients, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Remember, mastering the fundamentals, from proper rolling techniques to toasting breadcrumbs, will elevate your dish to new heights. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey of creating this culinary masterpiece, and savor the delicious results of your efforts. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the delightful experience of making and savoring this delectable Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu. Bon appétit!