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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a special occasion but is surprisingly simple to make, this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken breasts enveloped in savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, delicately breaded and baked to golden perfection, all finished with a luscious, tangy creamy Dijon sauce that ties every bite together. It’s a classic dish elevated by homemade love and a sauce that brings a creamy, flavorful punch—perfect for impressing family or enjoying a delectable weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the tender chicken breasts to the crunchy Panko crumb coating and the decadently creamy sauce, these essentials come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base for all the fillings and flavors.
- 4 slices ham: Adds a salty, smoky layer inside the chicken that pairs perfectly with melted cheese.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to give each bite a creamy, slightly nutty flavor.
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs: Creates a wonderfully crisp crust that contrasts with the tender chicken and filling.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle herbaceous note to the breadcrumb coating.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Infuses mild sweetness and depth into the breading.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a warm, savory undertone that complements the other spices.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the filling, coating, and sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of bite.
- ½ cup butter, melted: Used for dipping to help the breadcrumbs adhere and aid browning.
- ¼ cup butter: For the base of the creamy Dijon sauce, lending richness and smoothness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect velvety texture.
- ¾ cup milk: Adds creaminess to balance the tang of the mustard.
- ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard: The star seasoning of the sauce, giving it a bold and tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a subtle umami richness to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To season the sauce perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle without cutting all the way through, then open them like a book. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even, thin layer using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Lightly season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This step ensures your chicken cooks evenly and makes rolling it up easier.
Step 2: Add the Ham and Cheese
Next, layer one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken breast. The key here is to distribute these filling ingredients evenly so every bite delivers that classic cordon bleu combination of melty cheese and savory ham. Then, carefully roll each chicken breast up, keeping the filling tucked inside for the gooey surprise that awaits.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Rolls
In a shallow bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful crust. Set up a breading station by placing melted butter in one shallow bowl and the breadcrumb mixture in another. Dip each chicken roll into the melted butter, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Transfer the breaded rolls to a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step guarantees a crispy, golden exterior that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared chicken rolls in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked but still juicy. The breadcrumb coating will crisp up beautifully, encasing the tender, cheesy filling inside.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce
While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce by melting ¼ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a smooth roux, cooking it for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk to prevent lumps, stirring until the sauce thickens. Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for that signature tangy kick, then season with salt. This sauce is what takes the dish from delicious to downright memorable.
Step 6: Serve with Sauce
Once the chicken is out of the oven, spoon the creamy Dijon sauce generously over each roll. The sauce seeps into the crust slightly, marrying all the flavors and adding a luscious texture to each bite. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives make perfect garnishes, adding a burst of color and a mild crunch to cut through the richness of the dish. A lemon wedge on the side can also brighten up the flavors with a little zesty splash before you dig in.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto complement the Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe beautifully. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette provide a perfect balance to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken rolls into elegant pinwheels to showcase the ham and Swiss spiraled inside. Serving these atop a bed of sautéed spinach or wild rice not only looks impressive but also adds a variety of textures and flavors to the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the crispness of the crust and reheat just before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked, breaded chicken rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before baking as directed for fresh-from-the-oven results.
Reheating
To retain that crispy crust when reheating, warm the chicken rolls in an oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, then pour it over once both are heated through.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! Gruyère or mozzarella are excellent substitutes that melt well and provide their own unique flavor, giving the Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe a delightful twist.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken breasts ensures they cook evenly and makes rolling the ham and cheese inside much easier. It also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier final dish.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the sauce. This allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness without gluten concerns.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the crust should be nicely browned.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for guests?
Definitely! You can assemble the chicken rolls and bread them a few hours before baking, storing them covered in the fridge. Bake fresh before serving and prepare the sauce just before mealtime for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, the Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. Its harmonious blend of textures and flavors is guaranteed to wow anyone at your table. So why not bring a little elegance into your kitchen tonight and treat yourself and your loved ones to this truly special meal?
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Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic, elegant dish featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce. This recipe serves 4 and makes an impressive yet approachable meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Breading
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ cup butter, melted
Sauce
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle without cutting all the way through, then open it like a book. Place the breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound it evenly thin using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Stuff and Roll: Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken breast. Carefully roll up the breast, encasing the filling inside.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set up a breading station with melted butter in one bowl and the breadcrumb mixture in another. Dip each chicken roll in melted butter, then roll thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place the coated rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the chicken rolls in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in milk to form a smooth sauce. Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, seasoning with salt to taste. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy mustard sauce generously over the baked chicken cordon bleu and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is pounded evenly thin to guarantee even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute ham with prosciutto or turkey slices if desired.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Leftover chicken cordon bleu can be refrigerated and reheated gently to maintain moisture.
