Introduction
Welcome to the world of comforting delights with a twist! Today, we’re diving into the savory goodness of Chicken Cordon Bleu, a classic dish that elevates the humble chicken breast to a level of indulgence that’s hard to resist. Imagine tender chicken enveloping layers of ham and Swiss cheese, all topped off with a rich and creamy Swiss cheese sauce. This dish isn’t just a feast for the taste buds, it’s a celebration on the dinner table. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight meal, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness—this ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy!
- On each flattened chicken breast, lay 2 slices of ham followed by 2 slices of Swiss cheese. This savory combination is what makes this dish so delicious!
- Carefully fold the chicken over to encase the ham and cheese filling inside. If needed, secure the edges with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
- Set up a breading station: First, in one shallow dish, combine flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, place the breadcrumbs.
- Take each stuffed chicken breast, dredge it in the seasoned flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully covered.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once sizzling, gently add your breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the juices run clear.
- While your chicken is baking, let’s whip up the Swiss cheese sauce! In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, grated Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Cook over low heat, whisking until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- After the chicken has baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the moisture. Serve drizzled with the luscious Swiss cheese sauce, and don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that finishing touch!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a fun twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a few fundamental cooking techniques, including pounding chicken for even cooking, creating a breading station for crispy coating, and melting cheese into a creamy sauce. Each step is straightforward, but together they create a harmonious dish that’s sure to impress.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What sides pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish is fantastic with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss cheese sauce isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Each bite is filled with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. We hope you enjoy making this comforting meal as much as we do. Happy cooking!