When it comes to Chicken Cordon Bleu, you might think of the classic ham and Swiss combination, but there's so much more to investigate. You can easily enhance your dinner game with variations like baked options that cut down on calories or the convenience of air fryer recipes that deliver crispiness without the fuss. And if you're craving something a bit different, you might be surprised by the creamy spinach version. Each recipe has its unique charm and flavor profile, but which one will become your new favorite?
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delectable dish that features tender chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. This elegant meal is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your family and friends with this deliciously satisfying entrée that pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Begin by placing a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Remove the plastic wrap, and layer a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the chicken.
Roll the chicken tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Repeat this process for the remaining chicken breasts.
Next, set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a third.
Dredge each chicken roll first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken rolls for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make certain to pound the chicken evenly to guarantee even cooking.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, depending on your taste preference.
If you prefer a healthier version, consider baking the chicken rolls instead of frying them. To do this, brush the rolls lightly with olive oil before placing them in the oven.
Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing will help retain the juices, guaranteeing a moist and flavorful dish.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu!
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and healthier twist on the traditional fried version. This dish features tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. With a simple preparation method, you'll have a comforting meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Plus, it allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu without the added calories from frying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by lightly flattening the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, then roll them up tightly, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
Set up a breading station by placing flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and parsley in a third dish.
Dredge each rolled chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior is golden brown.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee that your Chicken Cordon Bleu remains moist, avoid overcooking it—use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before assembling.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique twist. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a crispy, golden-brown coating, made easy with the air fryer. The result is a mouthwatering dish that's sure to please everyone at the table while requiring less oil than traditional frying methods.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
- Toothpicks (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating, prepare the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally to create pockets for the filling.
Season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese into each chicken pocket, folding them if necessary. Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Lightly spray the coated chicken with olive oil before placing it in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider seasoning the breadcrumbs with Italian herbs, garlic powder, or paprika.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can double-dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs for extra coating.
Be cautious when removing toothpicks after cooking, as they can be hot.
Serve your Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Spinach and Cheese Cordon Bleu
Spinach and Cheese Cordon Bleu is a delightful twist on the classic dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with a creamy spinach and cheese filling. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a rich, flavorful meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to any dinner table.
With a crispy exterior and a delectable filling, this dish can be served alongside a fresh salad or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Carefully butterfly each chicken breast, making a pocket but not cutting all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. Secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary.
Dip each stuffed chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring they're evenly covered.
Place the chicken on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Extra Tips:
Make sure not to overfill the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
You can also personalize your filling by adding herbs or spices that you enjoy, such as basil or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
For an even crispier texture, consider frying the chicken briefly in a skillet before baking.
Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender chicken.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll-Ups
Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll-Ups are a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese in a convenient and easy-to-make format.
These roll-ups are perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, as they're flavorful and visually appealing. With a crispy breadcrumb coating and a melty cheese center, they're sure to please both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Begin by flattening the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap using a meat mallet until they're about 1/4 inch thick.
Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, then roll them up tightly, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
Set up a breading station by placing the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
Season the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken roll-up in flour, dip in the egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Place the roll-ups seam side down in a greased baking dish, drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before preparing the roll-ups.
Confirm that the chicken is pounded evenly to facilitate even cooking.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese or ham to customize the flavor profile.
Serve the roll-ups with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.