This Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a treat for your taste buds! It’s made with tender chicken breasts, ham, and cheese, all wrapped up and breaded to golden perfection.
And don’t get me started on the creamy Dijon sauce! It adds a yummy twist that makes every bite even better. I love to serve it with a simple salad on the side for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead. They stay juicier and are flavorful!
Ham: Thinly sliced ham adds a nice salty contrast. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey slices work well too, or you can skip it entirely and try spinach instead for a veggie twist.
Cheese: Swiss or Gruyère cheese gives that creamy texture, but if those aren’t available, try mozzarella or provolone for a melty goodness.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for crunchiness. In a pinch, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes can also work. Just keep the crunch factor in mind!
Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter option. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute, adding a unique flavor.
How Do I Get My Chicken Cordon Bleu Extra Crispy?
Getting your Chicken Cordon Bleu extra crispy comes down to a few key steps. Start by ensuring the chicken is properly pounded; it helps in cooking evenly and allows for a better crunch when breaded. You want it thin but not falling apart!
- Use panko breadcrumbs. They create that delightful crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Heat the oil well before frying. A medium heat is perfect to cook through without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry a few at a time to keep the heat consistent.
- Let the fried chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a moment to absorb excess oil before serving.
With these tips, you’ll have a crispy, delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu ready to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot or 1 tablespoon onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for entertaining guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound each breast to about ¼-inch thickness. Once flattened, season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
On each flattened chicken breast, lay a slice of ham followed by a slice of cheese. Roll the chicken tightly, tucking in the edges to keep the filling secure. If necessary, use toothpicks to ensure they stay rolled up.
3. Bread the Chicken Rolls:
Next, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, beat the eggs with the milk. In the third, combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika if you’re using them. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture and coat it evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken rolls to the skillet. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot (or onion) and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in both the Dijon mustard and whole-grain mustard if using, whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
Before serving, remove any toothpicks from the chicken rolls. You can slice them into rounds or leave them whole. Drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This crispy chicken cordon bleu with its rich, creamy mustard sauce pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and Gruyère are traditional choices, you can also use mozzarella for a milder flavor or provolone for something a bit sharper. Just make sure whichever cheese you choose melts well!
What Can I Use Instead of Ham?
If you want to skip the ham, consider using turkey slices for a leaner option or sautéed spinach for a vegetarian twist. Both alternatives can still provide great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain its crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this chicken cordon bleu gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. It will taste just as delicious!
