Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Cream Sauce

Name: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Cream Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 4 slices ham; 4 slices Swiss cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 pinch salt and pepper (to taste)

70 min 4 servings Medium

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Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Cream Sauce

Savoury ham and Swiss rolled inside chicken breast, breaded and baked to perfection with a creamy Dijon sauce.

Prep

30 min

Cook

35 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines the flavours of savoury ham and gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a tender chicken breast. This delightful recipe is perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal. The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu can be traced back to the Swiss, who were inspired by the French culinary tradition. The name 'Cordon Bleu' translates to 'blue ribbon,' a symbol of excellence, which this dish certainly lives up to. By following this recipe, you can recreate this classic in your own kitchen, complete with a rich and creamy Dijon sauce.

Ingredients

Servings

Chicken and Stuffing

Breading

Dijon Cream Sauce

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/2 cm (1/4 inch) thick.

Pro tip: Even thickness ensures the chicken cooks uniformly.

Stuff the chicken

Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll tightly from one end to the other.

Pro tip: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls.

Chill the rolls

Chill the stuffed chicken rolls in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Bread the chicken

Dredge each roll first in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.

Pro tip: Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere well.

Bake the chicken

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the breaded rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Pro tip: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Probe the thickest part.

Make the Dijon cream sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Keep whisking to avoid lumps.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the Dijon cream sauce drizzled on top.

Pro tip: Resting helps retain the chicken's juices.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls tightly to prevent cheese from leaking.</li><li>Pound chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.</li><li>Chill the stuffed chicken before breading to help it hold its shape.</li><li>Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A light white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with this dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain crispiness. For make-ahead options, prepare and stuff the chicken rolls, then refrigerate until ready to cook. This dish is ideal for meal prep and can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before baking as directed.