Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that brings classic flavors to your dining table. With tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and Swiss cheese, then baked to golden perfection, it’s topped with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that elevates the entire meal. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of taste and presentation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Coat the Chicken
• Step 3: Bake the Chicken
• Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Pair with Fresh Salads
• Add Some Vegetables
• Complement with Starches
• Enhance with Breads
• How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce?
• How do I make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce ahead of time?
• Can I use other cheeses in this recipe?
• Is there a healthier version of Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy Preparation: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
• Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or potlucks—this dish fits any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: When sliced into pinwheels and drizzled with cheese sauce, it looks stunning on any table.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken rolls in advance, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Plastic wrap
• Shallow bowls (for flour, eggs, breadcrumbs)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Helps flatten the chicken evenly for easier rolling.
• Plastic wrap: Keeps the chicken tightly rolled while chilling in the refrigerator.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the chicken to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (each split into 3 thin slices)
• 8 slices ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (220g) Panko breadcrumbs

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (473ml) whole milk
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard paste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (55g) grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated sharp cheddar cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice and Pound: Split each chicken breast into 3 thin slices. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
2. Stuff and Roll: Lay out 3 pounded chicken slices on plastic wrap. Season with salt and pepper. Layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top. Roll tightly like a jellyroll, wrapping them in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends to secure.
3. Chill: Place the rolled chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to help them hold their shape.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Flour: In a shallow bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roll the chicken roulades in the flour to coat.
2. Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
3. Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow plate, spread out the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper. Roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the coated chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spray generously with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter together. Add flour and cook for 2 minutes while whisking constantly to create a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; let simmer for one minute. Add Parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.

Step 5: Serve

Allow baked chicken to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into pinwheels about an inch thick. Drizzle warm cheese sauce over sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the chicken.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with seasonal greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and slight crunch add nutrition without overwhelming the palate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and garlic, this side brings elegance to the plate.

Complement with Starches

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the cheesy sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs serves as a wonderful base for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.

Enhance with Breads

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a crispy texture that complements the soft chicken.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up extra cheese sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

To achieve the best Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, consider these essential tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Bold Preparation: Slice chicken breasts thinly to ensure they cook evenly and roll easily.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating the rolled chicken helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Generous Coating: Apply a thick layer of breadcrumbs for optimal crunchiness in every bite.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality Swiss and cheddar cheeses for a richer flavor in your sauce.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Chicken Cordon Bleu meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, these potatoes balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and crunch to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a nutritious side.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts deliver an earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds freshness and brightness, cutting through the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweetness from baked potatoes pairs nicely against savory notes from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Failing to chill the rolled chicken can cause it to unravel during cooking. Always chill for at least 1-2 hours.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many chicken rolls too close together can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure space between each piece for proper air circulation.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season the layers of chicken and ham can result in bland flavors. Season each layer generously with salt and pepper.
• Not Using Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs may not provide the same crispiness. Opt for Panko breadcrumbs for a perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at a temperature that’s too low won’t yield that beautiful golden color. Always bake at 350°F (177°C) for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and reheat, turning occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce?

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a classic dish featuring chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and baked. A creamy cheese sauce tops it off for extra flavor.

How do I make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffed chicken rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. The cheese sauce can also be made in advance.

Can I use other cheeses in this recipe?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors in your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce.

Is there a healthier version of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

For a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken breasts, reduce the amount of cheese used, or bake instead of frying.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce recipe is not only delicious but versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy family cravings. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using different meats. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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