Shortcut Chicken Cordon Bleu
A quick and cheesy chicken dish featuring ham and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, baked to perfection—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken breasts in a skillet until browned. Remove from skillet.
- Add all other ingredients to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the cheese is melted and well mixed.
- Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve over noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. You can substitute Swiss cheese with provolone or mozzarella if desired. If you prefer a little kick, add a dash of mustard or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This dish can also be made with turkey for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dish over a bed of noodles or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A glass of white wine or a light beer complements the flavors nicely. This meal is also great for meal prep, making it convenient for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the chicken stays moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covering it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shortcut Chicken Cordon Bleu contains roughly 464 calories, with 41g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Cook them in the skillet until fully cooked through to ensure they are safe to eat and tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can create a vegetarian version by substituting chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Use vegetable soup instead of chicken soup and omit the ham for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
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).