Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu (Baked or Fried)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers crispy, cheesy, and savory chicken with the added richness of Swiss cheese and a flavorful sauce. You get the flexibility of baking for a lighter version or frying for extra crispiness. The creamy Dijon mustard sauce adds a tangy finish that perfectly complements the chicken, making it a classic comfort food favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 thin slices Swiss cheese
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup plain bread crumbs
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce (optional):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking.
2. Using a sharp knife, butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally but not cutting all the way through, then open like a book. Pound chicken gently to even thickness.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place two slices of Swiss cheese inside each chicken breast.

Breading Process:

5. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg mixed with water, and one with bread crumbs.
6. Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with bread crumbs.

Cooking Options:

To Fry:
7. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

To Bake:
8. Place breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and breadcrumbs are golden.

Prepare the Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce (optional):

9. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cornstarch and cook for 1 minute.
10. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
11. Stir in Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve:

12. Remove toothpicks from chicken and serve hot with creamy Dijon mustard sauce drizzled on top or on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 50 minutes

Variations

• Use Gruyère or mozzarella cheese instead of Swiss for different flavors.
• Coat with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
• Bake the chicken with a light drizzle of olive oil for a crispier crust.
• Spice up the breading with a pinch of cayenne or paprika.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes, freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and bread chicken ahead, refrigerate, and cook when ready.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone can be good substitutes.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the chicken tightly when rolling and secure with toothpicks.

Can I bake the chicken without breading?

Yes, but breading adds texture and flavor. You can bake plain stuffed chicken for a lighter dish.

What sides pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad are excellent choices.

Is the Dijon mustard sauce necessary?

It’s optional but adds a tangy creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, thighs can be used but adjust cooking time and be sure to butterfly or flatten for even cooking.

What if I don’t want to fry?

Baking is a healthier option that still produces a delicious, crispy crust.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu is a sophisticated yet approachable dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with melted cheese and a flavorful mustard sauce. Whether baked or fried, this recipe offers a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods, it’s a versatile favorite sure to impress.

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