Fast Chicken Cordon Bleu
A quick and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with ham and Swiss cheese in a creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1/2 stick of margarine in a frying pan over low to medium heat.
- Add crushed garlic to the pan.
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten eggs, then in bread crumbs until lightly coated.
- Cook the breaded chicken breasts in the margarine until lightly browned on each side.
- Remove the chicken to a shallow baking dish.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup over the chicken breasts to cover them.
- Top each with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve immediately with rice or potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, you can use pre-breaded chicken cutlets instead of raw chicken breasts. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the margarine with olive oil or use low-fat cream of mushroom soup. You can also replace Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan while frying for a perfect golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes, making it a hearty meal. For a fresh touch, serve alongside steamed vegetables or a light salad. Consider complementing it with a crisp white wine to enhance the flavors. You can also browse more American recipes for additional side dish ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven method will help retain the crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast Chicken Cordon Bleu contains roughly 883 calories, with 52g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 714mg per serving (31% 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 use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary slightly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken and assemble the dish ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
What can I serve as a side dish with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Consider serving it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or rice pilaf are also great options. For a comforting twist, you might enjoy pairing it with Oven Fried Chicken Pieces for a chicken-themed dinner.
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).