If you’re craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal, this Easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken breasts are lovingly stuffed with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Then, the whole dish gets a decadent boost from a rich, smooth Dijon cream sauce that ties it all together beautifully. It’s the kind of dinner that looks fancy but comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for weeknights or impressing friends without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese to the crisp breadcrumbs, these simple components come together to create something truly special.
- 4 boneless chicken breasts: The tender base for holding all the delicious fillings and maintaining juiciness while baking.
- 4 slices deli ham: Adds a smoky, savory partner that complements the cheese and chicken beautifully.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly inside, bringing that classic mild nuttiness and creaminess.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides a crisp, golden crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Helps the breadcrumbs brown evenly and adds a lush flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The silky base for the rich Dijon cream sauce that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Sharp and tangy, it cuts through the creaminess and adds depth to the sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every component and bring out their natural flavors.
How to Make Easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Rolls
Start by pounding the chicken breasts thin to ensure even cooking and make them easier to roll. Layer each piece with a slice of ham and Swiss cheese, then carefully roll them up and secure with toothpicks. This creates those delightful pockets of melty cheese and savory ham inside.
Step 2: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Next, mix the melted butter into the breadcrumbs so they’ll toast up beautifully in the oven. Roll each chicken bundle in the buttery crumbs to give a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken rolls in a baking dish and pop them in a preheated oven at 375 °F (190 °C). Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs turn a gorgeous golden brown. The smell at this point will be absolutely irresistible!
Step 4: Whisk Up the Creamy Dijon Sauce
While the chicken bakes, whisk together the heavy cream and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir it constantly until it thickens into a luscious sauce that’s ready to drizzle over your chicken rolls. This sauce is where the “creamy” magic truly happens.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Once the chicken is done baking, remove the toothpicks and pour your thickened Dijon cream sauce generously over each piece. The sauce seeps into the crispy crust and pools around the plate, creating a blend of textures that tastes like a hug on a plate.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper adds freshness and a pop of color. A lemon wedge on the side can provide a bright citrus twist that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken shines alongside simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. These pairings balance the richness without competing, making every bite feel harmonious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try slicing the chicken roulades to showcase the spiral of ham and cheese inside, then fan them out on a platter with sauce drizzled artistically. You can also plate individual servings in shallow bowls with a spoonful of sauce and garnish for a restaurant-worthy presentation at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this tasty dish without any hassle the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Wrap each chicken roll tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight before reheating to maintain all the flavors and textures.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) to restore crispiness, or warm them covered in the microwave for convenience, then finish with a quick broil to bring back the crunch. Reheat the sauce separately on the stove for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss is traditional and melts beautifully, cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella can also work splendidly. Just pick one that melts well and complements the ham’s flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken the sauce. Keep in mind it won’t be quite as rich and creamy but still delicious.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken ensures they cook evenly and are easier to roll tightly. If your chicken breasts are thin enough already, you can skip this step, but it’s usually worth the effort for the best results.
Can I prepare this recipe without breadcrumbs?
You can skip breadcrumbs for a lower-carb version, but you’ll lose the crisp topping that’s such a key texture contrast. Alternatively, crushed nuts or seasoned crushed pork rinds can work as a creative substitute.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C) or when juices run clear. Baking at 375 °F for 25-30 minutes usually gets you there perfectly, but a meat thermometer is your best friend for certainty.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is one of those rare gems that combines elegance and comfort without hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. So go ahead, try it out, and prepare to fall in love with every tender, cheesy, blissfully saucy bite.
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Easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, rolled and baked to perfection, then smothered in a luscious, creamy Dijon mustard sauce. This easy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu offers an elegant, comforting meal that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Creamy Dijon Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts thin until evenly flattened. Layer a slice of ham and Swiss cheese onto each breast, then roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks to hold the filling inside.
- Coat Rolls: Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Coat each chicken roll thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture to form a crispy outer layer once baked.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken rolls in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375 °F (190 °C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Make Sauce: While chicken bakes, whisk together heavy cream and Dijon mustard in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Pour the creamy Dijon sauce over the baked chicken rolls, serving immediately for a warm, rich finish.
Notes
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- Secure the rolls tightly with toothpicks to prevent filling from spilling during baking.
- For a crispier coating, broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
