Craig Claiborne'S Chicken Cordon Bleu
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with melted cheese and ham, then breaded and fried to golden perfection—an elegant dish perfect for entertaining or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound lightly with a flat mallet to make them larger.
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese in the center of each chicken breast.
- Cover with 1 rectangle of boiled ham.
- Spoon another tablespoon of cheese on top of each piece of ham.
- Fold the edges of the chicken breasts over to enclose the filling.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts briefly in the freezer before breading them.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs mixed with water, and bread crumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat with bread crumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet and brown the chicken breasts until golden on all sides.
- Finish cooking by baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese or turkey ham instead of regular ham. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor. Make sure to pound the chicken evenly to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out. If you're short on time, you can skip the freezing step, but it helps with breading.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of Creole Greens for a delightful contrast of flavors. A simple salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, pair it with Peggy'S Dirty Rice. A light white wine or sparkling water can enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Craig Claiborne'S Chicken Cordon Bleu contains roughly 849 calories, with 34g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1379mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bread them right before cooking to ensure they stay crisp. You can also freeze them before cooking; just adjust the cooking time accordingly if cooking from frozen.
What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese?
If Gruyere cheese is unavailable, Swiss cheese is a great substitute. Other options include mozzarella for a milder taste or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture inside the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced. If you notice any pinkness in the meat, continue cooking it for a few more minutes.
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).