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CHICKEN CORDON BLEU

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Crispy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Cheesy Delight

Welcome to a delicious journey with our Crispy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with rich Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy Panko breadcrumb coating. Finished with a creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to impress guests.

Why Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless classic that delivers on flavor and texture. The combination of a crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and melty cheese creates a memorable dining experience that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Cordon Bleu

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces.
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper: For seasoning.
  • 2 eggs: Beaten with milk for an egg wash.
  • 1 tablespoon milk: To mix with the eggs.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken.
  • 1 1/4 cups Panko bread crumbs: For a crispy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds flavor to the breading.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds flavor to the breading.
  • 4 slices deli-size baby Swiss cheese: Melty and flavorful.
  • Olive oil: For spritzing to enhance crispiness.

For the Parmesan Dijon Cream Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter: The base for the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons flour: For thickening the sauce.
  • 1 1/2 cups milk: Creates a creamy texture.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Rich and melty.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped Italian parsley (optional): For garnish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F.
  2. Pound the chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness for easier rolling and even cooking.
  3. Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

  1. Egg wash: Whisk eggs and 1 tablespoon milk in a small bowl.
  2. Flour dredge: Place flour on a shallow plate.
  3. Breadcrumb mix: Combine Panko bread crumbs, dried basil, and dried oregano on another shallow plate.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu

  1. Add cheese: Place one slice of Swiss cheese on each piece of chicken.
  2. Roll and secure: Roll up each chicken breast tightly and secure with a toothpick.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

  1. Dip and coat: Dip each chicken roll into the egg mixture, then coat with flour, dip back into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the Panko mixture.
  2. Place on baking sheet: Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spritz with olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness.
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Step 5: Bake the Chicken

  1. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  2. Tent with foil: Cover loosely with foil to keep warm while preparing the sauce.

Step 6: Make the Parmesan Dijon Cream Sauce

  1. Melt butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add flour: Whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Add milk: Slowly whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add mustard and cheese: Reduce heat to low, whisk in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Remove toothpicks: Carefully remove toothpicks from the chicken.
  2. Slice and drizzle: Slice chicken into rounds, drizzle with Parmesan Dijon sauce, and garnish with parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pound the Chicken Thin

Pounding ensures even cooking and easier rolling. Aim for a consistent 1/2 inch thickness.

Use Freshly Shredded Parmesan

Freshly shredded Parmesan melts better and enhances the sauce’s flavor compared to pre-packaged cheese.

Spritz with Olive Oil

A light spritz of olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.

Use an Instant-Read Thermometer

Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for perfect doneness without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I Prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time?

Yes, assemble and bread the chicken rolls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready.

Can I Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Absolutely. After breading, freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.

What Can I Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Pair with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. The sauce also complements pasta.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?

Yes, try Mozzarella, Gouda, or Provolone for a different flavor profile instead of Swiss.

What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work as alternatives, though Panko provides the crispiest texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that blends juicy chicken, melty cheese, and a crispy coating, topped with a creamy Parmesan Dijon sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it and savor the cheesy goodness!