Cordon Bleau
Cordon Bleu is a classic dish featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then coated and baked to perfection. Its crispy exterior and savory filling make it an elegant yet comforting choice, ideal for special occasions or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt.
- Place a slice of ham and a stick of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
- Tuck in the sides and roll up the chicken to enclose the filling, pressing to seal.
- Coat each rolled chicken in flour.
- Lightly brown the coated chicken in butter and then place in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, stir together the mushrooms, water, white wine, and Heinz 57 sauce in the remaining butter.
- Heat the mushroom mixture and pour it over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until tender.
- Thicken the sauce if desired and serve with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken before rolling. If you don't have Swiss cheese on hand, Gruyère or mozzarella can be great substitutes. To save time, you can use pre-sliced ham and pre-shredded cheese. Ensure the chicken is pounded evenly for consistent cooking. If you want to add a kick, include a dash of hot sauce in the mushroom mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Cordon Bleu pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider a side of roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad. This dish also complements a glass of dry white wine, enhancing the flavors of the wine used in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, the microwave can be used, but the oven will better maintain the chicken's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cordon Bleau contains roughly 582 calories, with 26g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
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 Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls up to a day in advance. Simply assemble them, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, proceed with the recipe as directed. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water. This will keep the dish moist and flavorful without the alcohol content.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced, and the chicken should feel firm to the touch.
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).