Quick Overview
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory ham and gooey cheese. This classic recipe has a rich and creamy sauce that elevates the flavors, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet impressive meal to serve, this creamy chicken cordon bleu is your answer. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll create a dish everyone will love.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breasts
For this recipe, you’ll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts, each weighing about 6 ounces. The chicken serves as the main protein source and should be pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Ham Slices
Use four slices of high-quality ham, preferably Swiss or Black Forest ham. Each slice should be approximately 1/4 inch thick. The ham adds saltiness and depth to the dish.
Cheese
You will need eight ounces of Swiss cheese, sliced thinly. This cheese melts beautifully and complements both the chicken and ham, providing that classic cordon bleu flavor.
Heavy Cream
Incorporate one cup of heavy cream into the sauce. The cream creates a luscious texture that makes this dish truly creamy and indulgent.
Garlic Powder
Add one teaspoon of garlic powder for flavor enhancement. This ingredient brings out all the savory notes in the dish without overpowering it.
Paprika
One teaspoon of paprika provides a hint of smokiness and beautiful color to your creamy sauce. It balances the richness while adding visual appeal.
Olive Oil
You will require two tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing the chicken. Olive oil helps achieve a golden crust while keeping the meat juicy.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
Chop two tablespoons of fresh parsley for garnish. This herb adds freshness to your dish and enhances its presentation.
Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about half an inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Step 2: Assemble Ingredients
Lay out each flattened chicken breast on a clean surface. Place one slice of ham on top of each breast followed by two slices of Swiss cheese. Roll each breast tightly from one end to another while securing the filling inside. Use toothpicks if necessary to hold them together during cooking.
Step 3: Dredge in Flour
In three separate bowls, set up your breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in the last bowl. Season flour with salt and pepper. Dip each rolled chicken breast first in flour, then in egg wash, followed by breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add each breaded chicken roll carefully into the pan. Sear them on all sides until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side—then remove from heat.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until combined smoothly. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet evenly covering each piece before transferring it to your preheated oven.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Ensure that when done baking, juices run clear from the thickest part of the chicken rolls.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Once cooked through, remove from oven and let rest for about five minutes before slicing into rounds for serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before placing on plates.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Tip
Serve your creamy chicken cordon bleu alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that impresses guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Storing Tip
Store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil in an oven at low temperature until warmed through ensuring not to dry out the meat.
This recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every bite of this delicious creamy chicken cordon bleu with friends or family!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when preparing creamy chicken cordon bleu is using the wrong type of cheese. Opt for Swiss cheese, as it melts beautifully and complements the flavors. Avoid sharp cheeses that can overpower the dish.
Another mistake is not properly pounding the chicken. If the chicken breasts are unevenly flattened, they may cook unevenly. Take your time to pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Lastly, don’t skip the breading process. A well-coated chicken with breadcrumbs creates a crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. Neglecting this step leads to a soggy result.
Tips and tricks
For a delicious creamy chicken cordon bleu, start by marinating your chicken breasts in a mixture of herbs and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes. This adds flavor and tenderness. You can use thyme or rosemary, which work well with this dish.
When assembling your chicken cordon bleu, layer the ham and cheese evenly to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of flavors. Use thin slices of ham like prosciutto or Black Forest ham for better texture and taste.
Cooking temperature matters greatly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the chicken. This temperature allows the chicken to cook through without drying out while achieving a golden crust on the outside.
Finally, let your dish rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. This step helps redistribute juices within the chicken, making each slice moist and flavorful when served.
Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Consider serving creamy chicken cordon bleu with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. These sides complement the rich flavors without overwhelming them.
For an extra touch, drizzle some homemade garlic cream sauce over the top just before serving. This simple sauce enhances the dish’s creaminess and adds depth.
If you want to add some crunch, garnish your plate with fresh parsley or chives. These herbs brighten up the presentation and provide a fresh flavor contrast that balances the richness of the dish.
Finally, serve with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the heaviness of creamy chicken cordon bleu. A crisp green salad adds freshness and rounds out your meal beautifully.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for creamy chicken cordon bleu?
To make creamy chicken cordon bleu, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, sliced ham (preferably Swiss), Swiss cheese, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings like salt and pepper. For added creaminess, include heavy cream or sour cream in your sauce recipe.
How long should I bake creamy chicken cordon bleu?
Bake creamy chicken cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Always use a meat thermometer for accurate results to ensure it’s safely cooked through without drying out.
Can I make creamy chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare creamy chicken cordon bleu in advance by assembling it beforehand and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it convenient for dinner parties or busy weeknights while retaining its delicious flavor when baked fresh just before serving.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese in this recipe?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, you can substitute it with provolone or mozzarella cheese. Both options melt well and will provide a similar texture while maintaining that delicious cheesy flavor essential for creamy chicken cordon bleu.
How do I prevent my filling from leaking out during cooking?
To prevent filling leakage during cooking, ensure that you securely close each chicken breast after adding ham and cheese by using toothpicks or kitchen twine. Additionally, sealing edges with flour before breading helps create a barrier that keeps everything intact during baking.
What side dishes pair well with creamy chicken cordon bleu?
Creamy chicken cordon bleu pairs wonderfully with sides such as roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or even steamed green beans tossed in olive oil. These options balance out flavors while enhancing your overall meal experience beautifully.
Summary
In summary, making creamy chicken cordon bleu involves careful preparation and attention to detail. Avoid common mistakes like using strong cheeses or neglecting proper pounding techniques. Incorporate tips such as marinating and resting cooked chicken for optimal flavor and texture. Consider pairing this dish with complementary sides like mashed potatoes or salads to complete your meal effectively.