Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior encases tender chicken filled with melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a creamy Swiss cheese sauce that adds a luxurious touch. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Swiss Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Add Filling: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll up the chicken tightly, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each chicken roll for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Add shredded Swiss cheese and garlic powder, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Remove toothpicks from chicken rolls and plate. Spoon Swiss cheese sauce over each chicken roll. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Swap Swiss cheese for provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Ham Substitutes: Use prosciutto or smoked turkey instead of ham for a unique twist.
• Baking Only: For a lighter version, bake the chicken rolls without pan-frying them first.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent it from separating.

FAQs

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish where chicken breasts are pounded thin, filled with ham and cheese, then breaded and cooked until golden and crispy.

Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This makes it convenient for entertaining or meal prepping.

What sides pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the rich flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu nicely.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Ensure the chicken breasts are rolled tightly and secured with toothpicks. Chilling the assembled rolls before cooking can also help maintain their shape and keep the filling intact.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

While traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu uses chicken breasts, you can experiment with turkey cutlets or pork tenderloin slices as alternatives.

Is it necessary to use toothpicks to secure the rolls?

Toothpicks help keep the rolls intact during cooking. If you prefer not to use them, you can tie the rolls with kitchen twine or place them seam-side down to minimize unrolling.

Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.

What type of breadcrumbs work best for this recipe?

Both regular and Panko breadcrumbs work well. Panko breadcrumbs will give a lighter, crispier texture to the coating.

How can I add more flavor to the breadcrumb coating?

Mixing in herbs like thyme or parsley, or adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs can enhance the flavor of the coating.

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes, you can freeze assembled uncooked chicken rolls. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce is a timeless recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The combination of crispy breaded chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce is pure indulgence. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s sure to impress.