Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu features tender chicken breasts stuffed with Swiss cheese and Italian ham, then coated in seasoned flour for a crispy exterior. This classic dish offers rich flavors of cheese, ham, and seasoned coating, making it perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread chicken breasts flat on a cutting board.
- Place Swiss cheese slices and Italian ham slices on top of each chicken breast.
- Fold the chicken breasts over the filling and secure the edges with toothpicks.
- On a sheet of waxed paper, mix flour and paprika.
- Coat each chicken piece evenly with the flour and paprika mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss for a nuttier flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breast in place of chicken. To ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Also, be sure to let the assembled chicken rest for a few minutes before cooking for better texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of Lemon Salad Supreme for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light vegetable medley. A glass of dry sherry can complement the dish well, enhancing the flavors from the cooking process. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside Rice Dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain the crispiness of the coating while warming the filling evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu contains roughly 716 calories, with 36g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. Just make sure to coat them in flour and paprika just before cooking to keep the coating fresh and crispy.
What can I substitute for the dry sherry?
If you don't have dry sherry, you can use white wine or chicken broth as a substitute. Both will add moisture and flavor to the dish, although the taste may vary slightly. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu before cooking. Wrap the assembled chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed. Freezing may affect the texture slightly, so it's best to consume within 2 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).