Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all encased in a crispy golden breadcrumb coating. This dish combines elegance with comfort, making it ideal for both special occasions and hearty weeknight dinners. Its rich, melty interior and crunchy exterior offer a satisfying contrast in every bite.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

chicken breastshalved ham slicesSwiss cheese slicesall-purpose floureggsbreadcrumbs (preferably panko)garlic powdersalt and peppertoothpicks (for securing rolls)olive oil or butter (for browning)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.

Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.

Roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Dredge each roll in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on all sides.

Transfer the browned chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove toothpicks before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use Dijon mustard between the ham and cheese for added tang.

Try Gruyère or provolone instead of Swiss cheese.

Wrap the chicken in prosciutto for a gourmet twist.

Make it gluten-free with almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to maintain the crisp coating.

FAQs

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

It’s a dish of rolled chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and baked or fried.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?

Browning adds flavor and helps seal the crust, but you can skip it if in a hurry.

What side dishes go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple garden salad pair wonderfully.

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw before reheating or baking.

Why is my cheese leaking out?

Ensure the chicken is tightly rolled and secured, and avoid overfilling.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey cutlets work similarly and offer a slightly different flavor.

What breadcrumbs are best?

Panko gives the crispiest result, but traditional breadcrumbs also work.

Do I need toothpicks?

They help secure the roll, but kitchen twine or baking-safe skewers are alternatives.

Can I air fry this?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers a delicious combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory elements that are sure to impress. Whether served for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this dish never fails to satisfy. Once you master the simple rolling and breading process, it’s bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.