Introduction
If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a delightful dish that’s both comforting and elegant, look no further than Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce. This classic recipe marries juicy chicken breasts with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Topped with a luscious cheese sauce, it’s a dish that elevates any dinner occasion while being approachable for home cooks. Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), a perfect temperature for cooking the chicken to tender perfection.
- To ensure even cooking, place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.
- Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
- On each chicken breast, lay down two slices of ham followed by two slices of Swiss cheese, creating a decadent filling.
- Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly, securing them with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the delicious contents inside.
- Dredge the rolled chicken breasts in flour, making sure to shake off any excess for a perfect crust.
- Dip the floured rolls into the beaten eggs, then coat them thoroughly with breadcrumbs for that crunchy exterior.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat and brown each chicken roll on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the browned chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sumptuous Swiss cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add in the milk and heavy cream, stirring frequently until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and shredded Swiss cheese, mixing until melted and smooth, creating a rich sauce.
- Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then carefully remove the toothpicks.
- Serve each chicken roll drizzled with the creamy Swiss cheese sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a light brine for a couple of hours before stuffing. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken rolls and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Simply adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Cooking Techniques
Pounding the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat. Browning the chicken before baking not only creates an inviting golden color but also seals in juices for a moist finish. The Swiss cheese sauce can be varied by incorporating herbs like thyme or adding sautéed garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a flour alternative such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
Delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this fabulous Chicken Cordon Bleu served with a creamy Swiss cheese sauce. It’s a dish that not only brings comfort but also a touch of gourmet flair to your dining table. Enjoy this classic recipe any night of the week, and savor every delicious bite!