Introduction and Quick Summary
What if I told you that you could create a gourmet meal right in your own kitchen? Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken breast wrapped around rich ham and gooey cheese, all perfectly baked to golden perfection. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will entice everyone at home, making this dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Imagine slicing into the crispy exterior to reveal juicy chicken filled with melted cheese oozing out. Each bite provides a delightful texture contrast that is both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this oven-baked delight is sure to impress. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining guests, promising a memorable dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of savory ham and creamy cheese paired with tender chicken creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward preparation steps, this recipe allows even beginner cooks to whip up a fantastic meal without stress.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is versatile enough to suit any event.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake, making mealtime even easier.
Ingredients for Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 medium-sized breasts; they should be uniform in thickness for even cooking.
- Deli Ham: Select thinly sliced ham; it adds the classic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Swiss Cheese: Use slices of Swiss cheese for melty goodness; feel free to substitute with Gruyere or mozzarella if preferred.
- Bread Crumbs: Opt for plain or seasoned bread crumbs for coating; they will give your dish a delightful crunch when baked.
- Eggs: You’ll need one or two eggs to help bind the breadcrumbs; fresh eggs work best for optimal flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Mustard: Dijon mustard adds tanginess; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound them gently until they are about half an inch thick.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
On each flattened chicken breast, layer a slice of ham followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Roll the chicken tightly from one end to the other and secure with toothpicks.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
In one bowl, beat an egg. In another bowl, place your bread crumbs. Dip each rolled chicken piece first into the beaten egg then coat thoroughly with bread crumbs.
Step 5: Bake
Arrange the coated rolls in your prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once cooked through and golden brown on top, remove from oven. Let rest for five minutes before slicing. Transfer to plates and drizzle with mustard sauce if desired—this adds an extra kick.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Thickness: Make sure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness so they cook evenly throughout.
- Use Toothpicks: Secure rolls tightly with toothpicks before baking; this keeps everything intact during cooking.
- Let It Rest: Allow your cooked rolls to rest before slicing; this helps retain juices inside.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using the wrong cheese: One common mistake when making Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is selecting the wrong type of cheese. Traditional recipes often call for Swiss cheese due to its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. If you choose a cheese that does not melt well, such as feta or cheddar, your dish could turn out dry or overly greasy. Stick with Swiss or Gruyère for a creamy, delicious filling that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Not pounding the chicken properly: Failing to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. If one side is thicker than the other, it may end up undercooked while the thinner side becomes dry. To ensure even cooking and tender meat, take the time to pound each breast to about half an inch thick before stuffing and baking.
- Skipping the resting period: After removing your Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu from the oven, it is crucial to let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Cutting too soon can cause all those delicious juices to leak out, leaving you with dry chicken and a less satisfying experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad balances the richness of the chicken.
FAQs
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese in Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, you can easily substitute it with provolone or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile. Both options melt well and provide that creamy texture characteristic of traditional Cordon Bleu. Additionally, cheddar cheese can be used for a sharper taste. Keep in mind that the choice of cheese will slightly alter the overall flavor of your dish but will still deliver delicious results.
Can I make Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time. Simply follow all the steps up until baking, then cover the prepared rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing them in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking. If you prefer freezing, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
How can I ensure my Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu stays juicy?
To keep your Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the baking tray before cooking.
Is Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is perfect for meal prep since it reheats well without losing its flavor or texture. After cooking, let the rolls cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in your refrigerator. They keep well for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Conclusion for Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is an easy yet impressive dish that brings together tender chicken wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese. The preparation involves flattening chicken breasts, rolling them with delicious fillings, and coating them in seasoned breadcrumbs before baking until golden brown. Pair this delightful dish with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or sides based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting recipe any night of the week; it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delectable dish that elevates weeknight dinners or special occasions with its gourmet flair. This recipe features tender, boneless chicken breasts enveloped around savory deli ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Baked to perfection, each slice reveals a juicy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior. Serve this culinary delight alongside steamed vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Dijon mustard (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place chicken between plastic wrap and pound to about half an inch thick.
- Layer each chicken breast with ham and cheese, roll tightly, and secure with toothpicks.
- Dip rolls in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange in the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let rest for five minutes before slicing and serve with mustard if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
