There’s something irresistibly delicious about Chicken Cordon Bleu, don’t you think? I remember the first time I tried this dish at a fancy dinner party, and I was instantly captivated by the juicy chicken, savory ham, and that gooey Swiss cheese that seemed to melt like a warm hug. What’s not to love about a crunchy exterior giving way to a mouthful of flavor? It has become a favorite of mine to make at home, especially when I want to impress guests or just indulge in some comfort food. Plus, I’ve perfected my own special twist by draping it in a creamy Swiss cheese sauce that takes everything to the next level!
As I whip up this dish, it brings back memories of family dinners, laughter, and feeling like a gourmet chef in my own kitchen. Even if you’re not a culinary whiz, don’t worry! I’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of Chicken Cordon Bleu with that luscious sauce you won’t soon forget!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce?
Chicken Breasts: The heart of this dish! I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they’re easy to work with and cook quickly. If you can, try to get organic or free-range for an added flavor boost.
Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is perfect for this recipe. I love using Black Forest ham for its smokiness and flavor. It adds that irresistible saltiness that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Swiss Cheese: Essential for that melty goodness! I recommend using good-quality Swiss cheese for the best taste. Gruyère is also an excellent substitute if you want something a bit nuttier.
Breadcrumbs: We’ll need these for that satisfying crunch! I adore using panko breadcrumbs since they give a lighter, crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine too.
Eggs: These will hold everything together and help in breading the chicken. Make sure they’re at room temperature; they’ll blend better!
Flour: For dredging, this helps create a barrier that keeps the chicken moist while it crisps up beautifully.
Butter: Not just for cooking the chicken but also for making that creamy sauce. It adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Heavy Cream: This is the star of our sauce! It’s what gives our cheese sauce that luxuriously creamy texture.
Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon added to the sauce ups the flavor profile with a bit of tanginess that balances everything out perfectly.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce Good for You?
Now, let’s keep it real. Chicken Cordon Bleu is definitely a comfort food, and there are some health considerations to note. However, it does have some benefits!
Chicken Breast: This is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is great for muscle building and repair. Plus, it’s low in fat compared to other cuts of chicken.
Ham: While it adds flavor, it can be high in sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider choosing a low-sodium ham.
Heavy Cream: While it provides a rich texture, it’s also calorie-dense. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could opt for half-and-half or a lower-fat milk, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Overall, this dish is great for an occasional indulgence, especially when you pair it with some veggies or a salad. Just be mindful of portion sizes, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Ingredients List
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 8 slices of thinly sliced ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons of butter (for frying)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it.
2. To prepare the chicken, take each breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly.
3. Lay two slices of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll it tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
4. Set up a dredging station. In one dish, place the flour (seasoned with salt and pepper). In the second dish, beat the eggs. Finally, have the breadcrumbs ready in a third dish.
5. Dip each chicken roll first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure to pack the breadcrumbs on well for that perfect crunch!
6. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken rolls and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken rolls to the greased baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
8. While the chicken is baking, let’s move on to the sauce! In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir continuously until it starts to thicken, about 5 minutes.
9. Gradually whisk in the rest of the Swiss cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven, discard the toothpicks, and slice it. Drizzle the creamy Swiss cheese sauce over the top, and voilà, you’ve got yourself a gorgeous dish!
Delicious Tips and Variations!
– Feel like switching things up? Try using turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option.
– For a flavor explosion, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach inside the chicken before you roll them up!
– If you’d like to make this ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken rolls and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking!
– Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to lighten the meal.
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce! It’s always a hit, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process, so don’t be afraid to add your own twist!
