Get ready for a culinary journey with this classic French dish. Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only flavorful but also a delight to the eyes. This dish is all about precision and layering of ham and Swiss cheese neatly tucked inside a chicken breast, giving it a surprising burst of flavor. The finishing touch of a silky, tangy white wine sauce elevates the dish to a gourmet level. This may not be your everyday chicken dinner, but it's absolutely worth it for those special occasions or when you just want to treat yourself.
Most of the ingredients for this Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe are likely already in your kitchen. If not, they are easily available in any supermarket. However, make sure to get high-quality Swiss cheese and ham, as these are the stars of the show. Opt for a good quality Dijon mustard, which will add a nice tang to the sauce. You'll also need a dry white wine for the sauce; choose one that you would enjoy drinking as its flavor will come through.
Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken breasts: Lean protein which will be stuffed with ham and cheese.
Ham: Adds a smoky, meaty flavor to the dish.
Swiss cheese: Gives a mild, nutty flavor that melts well.
Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor when mixed with bread crumbs for the chicken coating.
Garlic: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the chicken coating.
Bread crumbs: Gives a crispy crust to the chicken.
Thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
Flour: Used as a thickener for the sauce.
Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
White wine: Gives the sauce a slightly sweet, tangy flavor.
Dijon mustard: Gives the sauce a spicy, tangy kick.
Chicken bouillon: Enhances the chicken flavor in the sauce.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a sweet, tangy, umami flavor to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a slightly nutty, savory flavor.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
One reader, Carce Tarr says:
This oven baked chicken cordon bleu recipe is a game-changer! The chicken turns out juicy, the ham adds a savory touch, and the melted Swiss cheese takes it to the next level. The sauce is a delightful finishing touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting, flavorful meal.
Techniques Required for Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
How to pound chicken: Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ¼-inch.
How to roll chicken jelly-roll style: Lay the pounded chicken breast flat, then place a slice of ham and a portion of Swiss cheese on top. Roll the chicken up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, and secure with toothpicks.
How to make sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, add flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and wine, stirring constantly until smooth. Then add Dijon mustard, chicken bouillon, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How To Make Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Enjoy a serving of this classic fancy but easy-to-make chicken cordon bleu stuffed with ham and swiss cheese, and topped with a creamy and cheesy sauce!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
- salt and pepper,to taste
- 4ham,slices
- 4ozSwiss cheese,or Gruyere cheese
- 3tbspbutter,melted
- 1clovegarlic
- 1cupbread crumbs,seasoned
- ½tspthyme
For Sauce:
- 2tbspbutter
- 2tbspflour
- ¾cupmilk
- ¼cupwhite wine
- 2tspdijon mustard
- 1cubechicken bouillon
- ½tspWorcestershire sauce
- ¼cupparmesan cheese
- salt and pepper,to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
Pound chicken to ¼-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Top each chicken breast with 1 slice of ham and about 1 oz of cheese. Roll the chicken jelly-roll style. Secure with a toothpick.
-
Combine the butter and garlic in a small dish. Mix the breadcrumbs and thyme in a separate bowl.
-
Dip each chicken roll in butter and then into the breadcrumb mixture. Dip each chicken roll in butter, and then into the breadcrumbs mixture.
-
Place in a baking dish and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
Sauce:
-
Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute.
-
Add in the milk and wine a little bit at a time, stirring after each addition, until the mixture is smooth.
-
Add in the dijon mustard, chicken bouillon, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil while whisking and reduce heat.
-
Simmer for 1 minute.
-
Remove from the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve over chicken.
Nutrition
- Calories: 15542.10kcal
- Fat: 885.40g
- Saturated Fat: 301.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.76g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 413.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 108.23g
- Carbohydrates: 402.67g
- Fiber: 14.32g
- Sugar: 5.02g
- Protein: 1403.86g
- Cholesterol: 4997.52mg
- Sodium: 85530.42mg
- Calcium: 1263.27mg
- Potassium: 27250.46mg
- Iron: 75.58mg
- Vitamin A: 279.96µg
- Vitamin C: 0.51mg
Key Technique Tip for Perfecting Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
When preparing your chicken cordon bleu, it's crucial to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy. Additionally, when rolling the chicken, make sure to roll it tightly to prevent the ham and cheese from spilling out during baking. Lastly, remember to remove the toothpicks before serving for safety.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the chicken breasts, ham, and cheese the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use a meat mallet: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
Multi-task: While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce and any side dishes to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, gather and organize all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as a sharp knife, meat mallet, and baking dish can make the preparation process quicker and more efficient.
Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools required for the recipe to avoid searching for items during the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts are a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, providing a similar texture and taste when cooked.
ham - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto offers a similar salty and savory flavor to ham, and its thin slices make it a suitable replacement for chicken cordon bleu.
Swiss cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a nuttier and slightly stronger flavor than Swiss cheese, making it a delicious alternative for adding richness to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can be used as a substitute in the sauce for a different aromatic profile.
bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter and crispier texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk, providing a creamy texture to the sauce.
white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for white wine, adding depth of flavor to the sauce.
Dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard offers a similar tangy flavor and texture, making it a suitable alternative to Dijon mustard in the sauce.
chicken bouillon - Substitute with vegetable bouillon: Vegetable bouillon can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken bouillon, providing a savory base for the sauce.
Worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, adding a savory and umami flavor to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with Asiago cheese: Asiago cheese offers a similar nutty and tangy flavor to Parmesan cheese, making it a delicious alternative for adding depth to the sauce.
Presenting Your Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu
Elevate the chicken rolls: Carefully arrange the chicken cordon bleu on the plate, ensuring they are positioned neatly and elegantly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.
Drizzle with sauce: Artfully drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the chicken, ensuring it cascades beautifully down the sides.
Add a touch of sophistication with microgreens: Place a small cluster of delicate microgreens on the plate to add a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to bring a touch of whimsy and sophistication to the dish.
Create a harmonious plate: Ensure that the components are arranged in a visually appealing manner, creating a balanced and harmonious plate.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out and captivate the diners.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and consider the shape to enhance the overall presentation.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ techniques such as quenelle or stacking to present the chicken cordon bleu in a refined and elegant manner.
Add a finishing touch: Before serving, give the plate a final inspection and add any last-minute details to ensure a flawless presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.
- Meat mallet: A tool used to pound or flatten meat to an even thickness for dishes like chicken cordon bleu.
- Toothpicks: Small pointed sticks used to secure the rolled chicken cordon bleu.
- Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking the chicken cordon bleu.
- Small dish: A container used for mixing the butter and garlic for coating the chicken.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for making the sauce.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, essential for making the sauce.
- Oven thermometer: A tool used to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the chicken cordon bleu.
Storing and Freezing Your Chicken Cordon Bleu
Let the chicken cordon bleu cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the breading soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken cordon bleu. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen chicken cordon bleu will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the frozen chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. You can also thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven for about 20-25 minutes.
If you want to retain the crispy texture of the breading, you can also reheat the chicken cordon bleu in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken cordon bleu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method will help maintain the crispiness of the breadcrumb coating while ensuring the chicken is heated through.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the chicken cordon bleu on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To prevent the chicken from drying out, cover it with a damp paper towel. Keep in mind that the breadcrumb coating may lose some of its crispiness in the microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the chicken cordon bleu while maintaining its crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cordon bleu and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the exterior is crispy. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it may cause the cheese filling to ooze out.
If you have leftover sauce, reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, add a small amount of milk or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency. Pour the warm sauce over the reheated chicken cordon bleu before serving.
Is Making Chicken Cordon Bleu at Home Cost-Effective?
This oven baked chicken cordon bleu recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breasts and ham can be budget-friendly, while the addition of Swiss cheese and white wine may increase the overall cost. The homemade sauce adds value, but the total cost for a family of four may range from $25-$30. The delicious flavors and impressive presentation make it worth the investment. Overall Verdict: 8.
Is Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Healthy or Unhealthy?
The oven baked chicken cordon bleu recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The use of butter, breadcrumbs, and cheese contributes to the dish's high calorie and fat content. Additionally, the sauce contains flour, milk, and more butter, further increasing the calorie and fat count. The ham used in the recipe is also likely to be high in sodium, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce the overall fat content
- Replace the butter with olive oil or a cooking spray to minimize saturated fat
- Opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs to increase the fiber content
- Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used to lower the calorie and fat content
- Replace the ham with a leaner protein, such as turkey or prosciutto, to reduce sodium intake
- For the sauce, use low-fat milk and replace the flour with a cornstarch slurry to lower the calorie and fat content
- Increase the amount of herbs and spices used, such as garlic and thyme, to enhance flavor without adding calories or fat
- Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and add nutrients
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Dish
The oven-baked chicken cordon bleu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of a flavorful sauce elevates the dish, adding a creamy and indulgent touch. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for home cooks, while the use of simple ingredients ensures a satisfying outcome. Overall, this recipe is a winner, perfect for a special dinner or a comforting family meal.
Enhance Your Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Oven Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe:
This recipe for oven baked chicken cordon bleu is a tried and tested classic that guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of succulent chicken breasts, savory ham, and gooey swiss cheese creates a symphony of flavors. The addition of a flavorful sauce made with butter, milk, and a touch of white wine elevates this dish to a whole new level. With clear instructions and quality ingredients, this recipe is a testament to the culinary expertise and promises a delightful dining experience.
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