Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions, bringing comfort and elegance to your table. The rich cheese sauce elevates this dish, making it a crowd-pleaser that showcases classic flavors in a simple yet impressive way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires no fancy techniques. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish for dinner or slice it up for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and bake them right before serving, saving you time on busy days.
• Perfectly Crispy Coating: The Panko breadcrumbs ensure a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Plastic wrap
• Shallow bowls (for coating)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Helps pound the chicken thinly, ensuring even cooking and easier rolling.
• Shallow bowls: Perfect for creating a station for flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs, making coating quick and efficient.
• Baking sheet: Essential for baking your chicken rolls evenly without sticking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (each split into 3 thin slices)
• 8 slices ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (220g) Panko breadcrumbs

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (473ml) whole milk
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard paste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (55g) grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated sharp cheddar cheese

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How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice and Pound: Split each chicken breast into 3 thin slices. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
2. Stuff and Roll: Lay out 3 pounded chicken slices on plastic wrap. Season with salt and pepper. Layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top. Roll tightly like a jellyroll, wrapping them in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends to secure.
3. Chill: Place the rolled chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to help them hold their shape.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Flour: In a shallow bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roll the chicken roulades in the flour to coat.
2. Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
3. Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow plate, spread out the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper. Roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the coated chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spray generously with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the olive oil and butter. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for one minute before adding Parmesan, Swiss cheese, and cheddar cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Serve

Let the baked chicken cool for 10 minutes before slicing each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Drizzle cheese sauce over sliced chicken rolls and garnish with chopped parsley.

With this guide, you’ll create an impressive Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance the dish.

Pair It with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these provide a flavorful contrast.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce pair wonderfully with the richness of the cheese sauce.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a light and zesty counterbalance.

Include Starches

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can absorb the cheese sauce flavor beautifully.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Perfecting your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve delicious results.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy when seasoning your chicken. Adding salt and pepper inside and out enhances flavor.
• Chill before cooking: Chilling the rolled chicken helps maintain its shape during baking or frying.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor in your sauce.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure accurate cooking times based on thickness; overcooking can dry out the chicken.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses in your sauce for unique flavors—Gruyère or Gouda work well too!
• Rest before slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Choosing complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Chicken Cordon Bleu.

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky delight is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a nutritious contrast to the rich chicken.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish wonderfully.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance and crunch.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
6. Creamed Spinach: This creamy classic pairs well, adding a touch of sophistication to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce can be simple, but some common mistakes can derail your dish. Here are a few pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

• Not Using Thin Chicken Slices: Thick slices make rolling difficult and can lead to uneven cooking. Always slice your chicken thinly for the best results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Failing to chill the rolled chicken can cause it to unravel during cooking. Refrigerate the rolls for at least 1-2 hours for stability.
• Inadequate Coating: A sparse breadcrumb coating leads to a lack of crunch. Be generous when coating the chicken in breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy texture.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking beyond the recommended time can dry out your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoned chicken can taste bland. Season each layer, including the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs, for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce?

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a classic dish made of chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked, served with a creamy cheese sauce.

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken rolls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to a month before cooking.

What types of cheese work well in this recipe?

While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also use Gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors in your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce.

How do I customize my Chicken Cordon Bleu?

You can customize your Chicken Cordon Bleu by adding vegetables like spinach or using different meats such as turkey or smoked ham.

Is Chicken Cordon Bleu suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests due to its impressive presentation and comforting flavors.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple it is to create an impressive meal!