Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce is a classic dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. This recipe combines tender chicken stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breaded crust and topped with a homemade Swiss cheese sauce that ties every bite together perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet elegant: This recipe elevates everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience without complicated techniques.
• Family-friendly: Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—it’s a dish that delights kids and adults alike.
• Perfectly balanced flavors: The salty ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce complement the mild chicken beautifully.
• Quick preparation: Ready in under an hour, it suits busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the fillings or sauce to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients that each add a distinct element to this recipe—from savory stuffing to crunchy coating and velvety cheese sauce.

• Chicken breasts: Thin, boneless pieces make rolling and cooking evenly a breeze.
• Ham slices: Choose thinly sliced, flavorful deli ham for a juicy, salty contrast.
• Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully inside the chicken and also stars in the creamy sauce.
• Bread crumbs: Panko or regular crumbs create a satisfying, golden crust.
• Eggs: Act as the perfect binder for breading.
• Flour: Helps the breading adhere and forms a nice base layer before dipping in egg.
• Butter and milk: Essentials for the Swiss cheese sauce’s rich and smooth texture.
• Mustard (optional): Adds a subtle tang to the sauce, enhancing depth.
• Garlic and onion powder: Provides gentle flavor layers to the breading and sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Highlights and balances the overall flavor.

Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Feel free to mix it up! This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce recipe invites personal touches, allowing you to cater to your tastes or dietary preferences effortlessly.

• Swap the ham: Use prosciutto, turkey, or even cooked bacon for different salty flavors.
• Cheese alternatives: Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar to vary the melty goodness in and on top.
• Gluten-free version: Replace bread crumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives for a safe, crispy crust.
• Add herbs to breading: Mix in parsley, thyme, or rosemary to boost the aroma and freshness.
• Spice it up: Incorporate paprika, cayenne, or ground black pepper into the breading or sauce for a subtle heat.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thinness, about 1/4 inch thick, which makes rolling easier and ensures thorough cooking. Lay them flat on a clean surface.

Step 2: Layer with Ham and Swiss Cheese

Place a slice of ham on each chicken breast, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent the cheese from leaking out.

Step 3: Roll and Secure

Carefully roll up each breast tightly from one side, tucking in the sides as you go. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure each roll so it holds together during cooking.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken Rolls

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic and onion powder. Dredge each roll in flour, dip in egg, and then coat thoroughly with bread crumbs.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Rolls

Heat a skillet with a little oil or butter over medium heat. Brown the rolls on all sides until golden, then transfer them to the oven to finish cooking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Make the Swiss Cheese Sauce

While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add warm milk, stirring until thickened. Lower the heat and melt in shredded Swiss cheese and a touch of mustard until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Serve

Remove toothpicks or twine carefully. Spoon the luscious Swiss cheese sauce over the chicken rolls just before serving for a beautiful and indulgent finish.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

• Even pounding: Use a meat mallet to ensure each chicken breast has consistent thickness for perfect cooking.
• Secure tightly: Roll chicken firmly and fasten securely to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
• Use fresh bread crumbs: For extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs work wonders versus finely ground ones.
• Keep sauce warm: Prepare the Swiss cheese sauce last and keep it on low heat so it stays velvety for serving.
• Test doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that brightens up the rich dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad to balance the richness with freshness and texture variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken rolls crosswise into medallions for an elegant plating style or serve them whole for comforting, generous portions that showcase the crispy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 3 days to maintain taste and texture.

Freezing

Wrap the uncooked, breaded chicken rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) rather than a microwave to keep the breading crispy and the chicken moist. Warm the cheese sauce separately and pour over after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella also melt well and pair nicely with the chicken and ham.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free versions to make a crispy and delicious gluten-free Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce.

How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Don’t overcook the chicken; pounding it thin helps it cook quickly and evenly. Using a meat thermometer can prevent drying out.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

You can assemble the rolls and bread them a day ahead, then refrigerate. Just fry and bake before serving for best results.

What is the best side dish to serve with this recipe?

Light, fresh sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp salad complement the richness of the chicken and cheese sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce recipe brings together comfort, elegance, and simplicity in one delicious dish. Once you try it, its creamy cheese, savory ham, and crispy breading will surely have you making it again and again. Give it a shot and watch it become a go-to meal that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen.

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