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Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those dishes that brings elegance to the dinner table without requiring advanced culinary skills. Originating in European tradition, this dish features chicken breasts rolled around cheese, then breaded and cooked until golden and crispy on the outside while staying juicy and melty inside. It’s the perfect combination of texture and flavor.
While it may sound gourmet, Chicken Cordon Bleu is incredibly accessible. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or just want to elevate your weeknight menu, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in your home kitchen.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?
At its core, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a rolled and stuffed meat dish. The most common version involves wrapping a flattened chicken breast around cheese, then coating it in breadcrumbs and pan-searing or baking until crisp.
The term “cordon bleu” originated from the symbolic blue sash worn by elite members of a historical French culinary order, later becoming associated with dishes made to a high standard.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
To make two servings of authentic Chicken Cordon Bleu, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
- 4 slices of cheese (Gruyère, Emmental, or Swiss-style)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup (60g) plain dried breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for securing rolls
- Chopped parsley, optional for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Start by laying the chicken breasts open on a clean surface, such as a cutting board or countertop.
- With a sharp knife, make a horizontal cut into the thickest section of the breast to open it like a book, ensuring you don’t slice all the way through.
- Cover with cling film or wax paper, then gently pound them with a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet until evenly flattened to about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thickness.
2. Add the Cheese
- Stack your cheese slices neatly on top, aligned toward the center so that the edges remain clean.
3. Roll and Secure
- Starting from one edge, roll the chicken tightly around the filling.
- Be sure to leave a clean margin near the edges, which helps the roll hold its shape and prevents ingredients from spilling out during cooking.
- Use toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine to keep the rolls closed.
4. Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Next, dip it into the beaten egg to moisten all sides.
- Finally, press the roll gently into the breadcrumbs, ensuring a complete and uniform crust forms.
5. Cook to Perfection
- Heat the butter and olive oil together in a skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering.
- Carefully place the rolls in the skillet and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, turning to achieve an evenly golden surface.
- Once seared, transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until a thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F.
When done, remove them from the oven and rest briefly before plating. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you’d like to add a touch of color and brightness.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Wrap with care: Roll the chicken tightly and fasten it well with toothpicks or twine to keep the cheese securely inside so nothing escapes during cooking.
- Temperature is key: Use a digital thermometer to avoid overcooking while ensuring food safety.
- Chill if needed: If your rolls feel soft or unstable, refrigerate them for 15 minutes before cooking to help them firm up.
For a cheesy appetizer experience before dinner, try these Crispy Mozzarella Sticks.
Variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken is the traditional choice, but you can personalize the dish with a few creative twists:
- For gluten-free diets, use almond flour for dredging and gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.
- Experiment with cheeses like aged cheddar, fontina, or smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Looking for something similarly comforting and cheesy? Don’t miss this Cheese Borek recipe.
Suggested Sides for Serving
Balance the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu with lighter or starchy accompaniments:
- Roasted Broccoli
- Delmonico Potatoes
- Green salad with Dijon vinaigrette
- Fresh baguette slices or warm Garlic Bread
- Buttered rice or a vegetable pilaf
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes. Let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them individually. Reheat in the oven until the filling is thoroughly warmed and the coating is re-crisped.
What cheese is best?
Use cheeses that melt well but won’t become overly runny. Gruyère, Emmental, or a firm Swiss-style option provides ideal results without losing structure.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can! Assemble and coat the chicken in advance, then store it covered in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to serve.
Why is it called “cordon bleu”?
The term has historical roots tied to prestigious French culinary traditions, symbolizing excellence in technique and quality.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless classic that combines savory, creamy, and crispy flavors in every bite. Once you master the basic technique, it becomes a dish you’ll return to again and again—perfect for both casual dinners and formal meals.
For more cozy, crowd-pleasing recipes, you might also like Chicken and Dumplings or the refreshing and hearty Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup.