There’s something truly satisfying about a dish that brings the whole family together, and this Deliciously Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu does just that! Juicy chicken breasts rolled with savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese, all smothered in a rich, velvety cream sauce , it’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, this recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that everyone will rave about.
Why You Should Whip Up This Chicken Cordon Bleu Tonight
If you’re in search of a family-friendly meal that’s both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, look no further! This Chicken Cordon Bleu not only combines flavors that your loved ones will adore, but it also packs in the creamy goodness that will leave them asking for seconds. It’s simply a dish that deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Preparing Your Chicken Cordon Bleu
Let’s get started on this delightful dish that brings together some of the best flavors in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ¼ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place two slices of ham and two slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
- Roll up the chicken breasts tightly and secure them with toothpicks. This is where the magic begins!
- Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls and brown them on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, prepare the creamy sauce. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan and stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Once the chicken is out of the oven, discard the toothpicks and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken rolls and serve with the creamy sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped parsley for that touch of color and freshness.
Serving This Delectable Dish
Serve this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes or a light pasta to soak up that sumptuous cream sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or in a oven until warmed through, and you’ll still have a tasty meal waiting for you!
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or even add some herbs for an extra punch of flavor.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken rolls tightly, ensuring that none of that delicious filling escapes during cooking.
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the ham for prosciutto or even a slice of turkey. You can also add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms inside the roll for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge before baking. Just ensure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but be mindful that it may not be as rich and creamy.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms, layered with cheese and ham (or a vegetarian alternative), and follow the same assembly method.
So, roll up your sleeves and gather your loved ones to enjoy this comforting, creamy chicken dish that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite!