If you are craving a dish that combines crispy, golden breading with melty cheese and savory ham wrapped inside juicy chicken, look no further than this fabulous Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe. It’s a classic favorite that elevates simple ingredients into a stunning, crowd-pleasing meal. The perfect harmony of textures and flavors makes this recipe a special treat for family dinners or entertaining guests. Once you try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen because it’s just that delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe comes together with just a handful of accessible ingredients, each selected for its role in building layers of flavor and texture that truly shine. From the savory ham to the crunchy cornflake coating, every item plays a vital part in bringing this dish to life.
- 8 thin slices ham: Adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and cheese.
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded): Melts beautifully inside for that classic creamy, slightly nutty taste.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds): The lean protein base that you’ll gently pound thin to create the perfect wrapping layer.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (crushed): Provides a wonderfully crispy and golden crust alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.
- 6 Tablespoons butter (melted): Helps the coating stick and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Forms the base of a tangy, creamy sauce that complements the baked chicken rolls.
- 1-2 teaspoons yellow mustard (to taste): Adds a zingy kick to the sauce that balances the richness of the cheese and mayo.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels — this helps them brown nicely later. Carefully slice each breast in half horizontally to create thin halves. Place them between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them out with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re uniformly thin but still intact, about 1/4-inch thick. This step is critical because it ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the rolls stay neat.
Step 2: Layer Ham and Cheese
Next, lay a slice of ham on each flattened chicken piece, then top with a generous handful of Swiss cheese. Whether shredded or sliced, the melting cheese inside is what gives this dish its signature gooey surprise. Roll each piece tightly, making sure to tuck in the edges slightly to keep the filling secure.
Step 3: Wrap and Chill
Wrap each chicken roll snugly in plastic wrap, twisting the edges to form a tight tootsie-roll shape. This not only keeps everything in place but also helps the flavors meld during chilling. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to one day — chilling is what makes the rolls easier to coat and bake without falling apart.
Step 4: Prepare for Coating
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for baking the rolls to golden perfection. Unwrap the chilled chicken, seasoning all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out the best flavor. Pulse the corn flakes in a food processor until fine crumbs form — this crispy coating is the star of the crunchy crust.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken Rolls
Dip each chicken roll first in melted butter — this acts as the glue for your crispy coating. Then roll the chicken in the cornflake crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the pieces stick well and create that irresistible crunchy texture that makes Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe unforgettable.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption, and the crust should be golden and crispy. Keep an eye towards the end to avoid overbaking and drying out the rolls.
Step 7: Make the Mustard Mayo Sauce
While the chicken is baking, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise with 1 to 2 teaspoons of yellow mustard in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of mustard to suit your taste — the sauce adds a creamy tang that beautifully offsets the richness of the cheese and ham, making every bite perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the top add a burst of color and a fresh note that brightens each plate. A wedge of lemon on the side can also bring a lovely citrus contrast to the creamy sauce and melted cheese.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with classic sides such as buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad. Each adds texture and flavor contrast, rounding out the meal with complementary colors and nutrients that elevate the dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe into an elegant appetizer by slicing the rolls into rounds and serving with toothpicks and a drizzle of the mustard mayo sauce. Alternatively, present the whole roll with a side of sauce on a sleek platter for a satisfying main dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked or uncooked chicken rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay good for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating as needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy and the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can be delicious substitutes. Just opt for cheeses that melt well to keep that gooey texture inside.
Is it necessary to chill the chicken rolls before baking?
Yes, chilling helps the rolls hold their shape and makes it easier to handle and coat them without falling apart. It also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the final dish.
Can I bake this recipe without breadcrumbs or cornflakes?
You really want some kind of crust for that signature crunch. If you don’t have cornflakes, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work well too, just ensure they are finely crushed for even coating.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken should be opaque and the juices run clear.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze them, then bake fresh when it’s mealtime. It’s a terrific way to enjoy a gourmet meal even on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with elegance in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for treating yourself or loved ones. Give it a try soon—you’ll love how the crispy exterior and melty interior come together in such a satisfying way!
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Description
Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, coated in crispy cornflake crumbs, and baked to golden perfection. Served with a tangy mustard-mayo sauce, this classic dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 thin slices ham
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded)
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Coating
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (crushed, or substitute breadcrumbs)
- 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons yellow mustard (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally in half to create two thinner halves. Place the halves between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound evenly to an even thinness, being careful not to tear the meat.
- Assemble Rolls: Place a slice of ham and a handful of shredded Swiss cheese on each chicken piece. Roll the chicken tightly, tucking in the sides to secure the filling, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to form a tight tootsie-roll shape. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to one day.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Coating: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken rolls from the refrigerator and unwrap. Season each roll with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Crush the corn flakes in a food processor until fine crumbs form and transfer to a shallow dish. Melt the butter in a separate shallow dish.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken roll first in the melted butter, then roll in the crushed corn flakes, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere well. Place coated rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the center rack of the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer (measuring the meat, not the filling).
- Prepare Sauce: While the chicken bakes, mix the mayonnaise and yellow mustard together in a small bowl. Taste and adjust with additional mustard if desired to enhance tanginess.
- Serve: Remove chicken rolls from the oven and let rest briefly before serving with the prepared mustard-mayo sauce on the side.
Notes
- You can substitute crushed breadcrumbs for the corn flakes if preferred.
- Don’t pound the chicken too thin; this prevents tearing and keeps the filling intact.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer, especially because the filling can mask doneness.
- Prepare chicken rolls a day ahead to save time and allow flavors to meld.
- Leftover rolls can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
