Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts filled with savory ham and Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating. The rich cheese sauce elevates this classic recipe, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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:
• 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
• Elegant Plating
• With Fresh Vegetables
• On a Bed of Rice
• Accompanied by Salad
• For Special Occasions
• 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?
• Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
• What cheese works best in this recipe?
• How do I customize my Chicken Cordon Bleu?
• Is there a healthier way to cook this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal that’s sure to be a hit.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken rolls in advance for easy cooking when you’re ready to eat.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Helps pound chicken breasts evenly for better cooking.
• Plastic wrap: Keeps the chicken rolls secure while chilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the chicken rolls.

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

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. In a shallow bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roll the chicken roulades in the flour to coat.
2. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
3. 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 about 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 before adding cheeses until smooth.

Step 5: Serve

Let baked chicken cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into pinwheels. Drizzle cheese sauce over sliced chicken and garnish with chopped parsley as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce! It’s sure to be a favorite at your table!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish.

Elegant Plating

• Use a large white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the chicken and cheese sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and freshness.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious contrast.
• Roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavor profile.

On a Bed of Rice

• Place the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the cheese sauce to soak in for extra flavor.
• Consider using flavored rice, such as lemon or herb, to complement the dish.

Accompanied by Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Include cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for added crunch and freshness.

For Special Occasions

• Pair with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which complements the flavors well.
• Set up an elegant table setting to make the meal feel special for guests.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Achieving perfection in your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for success.

• Use Thin Chicken Slices: Thin slices make rolling easier and ensure even cooking, leading to tender chicken throughout.
• Chill Before Cooking: Chilling helps the roulades hold their shape and prevents them from unraveling during baking.
• Generous Coating: Ensure the chicken is fully coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the cheese sauce.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses in your sauce for unique flavors. Gouda or Gruyère can add depth.
• Make Ahead: Preparing stuffed chicken rolls in advance saves time on busy days. They can be refrigerated or frozen until ready to cook.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Cordon Bleu enhances your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic elevate any meal’s comfort factor.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These flavorful sprouts provide a crispy texture that pairs beautifully with rich cheese sauce.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds nutrition and texture, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: For cheese lovers, this classic side dish harmonizes wonderfully with Chicken Cordon Bleu.
5. Steamed Carrots: Bright orange carrots add color and sweetness, providing contrast without overpowering flavors.
6. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complement the savory chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce from good to great.

• Using Thick Chicken Slices: Thick slices make rolling difficult and can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your chicken is pounded thin for best results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the rolled chicken can cause them to unravel during cooking. Take the time to chill them in the fridge for 1-2 hours.
• Insufficient Coating: A light breadcrumb coating won’t yield that desired crispy texture. Be generous with breadcrumbs, ensuring every inch is well-coated.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoning your filling or breadcrumbs can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season each layer well for maximum flavor impact.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Keep the cheese sauce separate if possible, to maintain its texture.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a container for better preservation.
• Label with the date so you remember when it was frozen.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Place on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes.

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 Swiss cheese, coated, baked, and served with a creamy cheese sauce.

Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken rolls and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking. They can also be frozen for up to a month.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can use cheddar or gouda for different flavors in your Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce.

How do I customize my Chicken Cordon Bleu?

You can customize by adding herbs or spices to your filling or using different types of meat like turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Is there a healthier way to cook this dish?

Yes! You can air fry or pan-fry instead of deep-frying to reduce fat while still achieving a crispy texture.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to elegant gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful flavors!

---

Main Dishes