As the aroma of sizzling chicken wafts through your kitchen, you know something delicious is about to happen. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken, tender and juicy, wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese, all encased in a crispy golden crust. That’s the magic of Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience.
This delightful recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaited dinner. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a special occasion. Get ready to indulge in an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation will surprise you, as it looks gourmet but is simple enough for any home cook
- The flavor profile combines savory chicken with melty cheese and ham for a crowd-pleaser
- Visually appealing, this dish adds elegance to any dinner table with its golden crust
- Versatile enough to serve alongside veggies or over pasta, making it adaptable for any meal plan
I remember the first time I made Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu; my friends couldn’t believe I had made something so fancy-looking at home!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Thinly Sliced Ham: Choose quality ham for the best flavor; it forms the heart of this tasty dish.
Swiss Cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully; feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese!
Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch; it gives that perfect crispy texture everyone loves.
Eggs: These are essential for binding the breadcrumbs and ensuring a lovely coating.
Flour: You’ll need this for dredging the chicken to help create that golden crust.
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple yet essential; these enhance all the flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Flatten the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
Dredge in Flour and Seasoning: On a plate, mix flour with salt and pepper. Take each flattened chicken breast and coat it lightly in the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour to avoid clumping.
Add Ham and Cheese Filling: Lay down a slice of ham on each chicken breast followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Roll up tightly from one end and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Bread Your Chicken Rolls: Dip each rolled chicken piece into beaten eggs, then roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Press down gently so they stick well.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the breaded rolls on your prepared baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Now you’re ready to slice those beauties open and reveal the melty goodness inside! Serve them hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Enjoying Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu means indulging in rich flavors that make every bite worthwhile! This dish is sure to bring joy—and perhaps some happy dance moves—to your dining table!
You Must Know
- Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines crispy chicken with savory ham and gooey cheese
- The aroma alone will have your family flocking to the kitchen, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Pound the chicken flat for even cooking, then layer with ham and cheese before rolling tightly. Bake until golden brown, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or add spinach for a twist. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to elevate the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving its crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Never skip pounding the chicken; it ensures even cooking and prevents dryness
- Use toothpicks to secure the rolls if needed, and let them rest after baking for juicier bites
- Don’t rush the cooling process; patience pays off!
Sometimes, my friends are convinced I’m secretly a culinary magician when they taste this dish. Their compliments make all those cooking mishaps worthwhile!
FAQ
What sides pair well with Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully, adding balance to your meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What is the best way to ensure juicy chicken?
Pound the chicken evenly and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices thinly sliced ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Flatten each chicken breast between plastic wrap to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season flour with salt and pepper, then dredge each chicken breast lightly.
- Layer ham and cheese on each breast, roll tightly, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Dip rolls in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Swap ham for turkey or add spinach for variation. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. Let chicken rest after baking for juicier bites.
