Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with cheese and ham, coated in bread crumbs, then baked until golden—perfect for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts with a mallet to flatten them.
- Place one slice of cheese and one slice of ham on each chicken breast.
- Fold each chicken breast in half and secure with toothpicks.
- Coat each chicken bundle with seasoned Italian bread crumbs.
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Place the coated chicken in the pan and cook for 1 hour at 350°F.
- Turn the chicken once during cooking.
- Baste the chicken occasionally with melted butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the chicken breasts are evenly pounded to promote even cooking. If you don’t have country ham, prosciutto or even turkey ham can work as a substitute. If you prefer a crunchier finish, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of seasoned Italian bread crumbs. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with a light pasta dish like Ziti And Broccoli Casserole for a heartier option. A side of garlic mashed potatoes or a simple tomato salad would also complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu contains roughly 537 calories, with 25g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken bundles and coat them with breadcrumbs a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can save time on busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, mozzarella is a great alternative that melts well. You could also use provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile while still achieving that gooey texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
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).