Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about a dish that takes you straight from your kitchen to a cozy French bistro, and Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu does just that. This classic recipe combines succulent chicken breasts filled with creamy Swiss cheese and savory ham, all enveloped in a crispy panko crust. Not only is it a quick meal, coming together in about 45 minutes, but it’s also a wonderful way to impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Plus, the rich, creamy Dijon sauce adds an irresistible finishing touch that’s hard to resist. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and make a meal that your loved ones will rave about? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why is Chicken Cordon Bleu a Must-Try? Crowd-Pleasing Delight: The combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and savory ham makes this dish an instant favorite, sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Quick and Easy: With only about 45 minutes of prep time, you can whip up an impressive meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Versatility: Choose between egg or mayonnaise breading for a unique twist, or customize with different types of cheese, like Gruyère or provolone. Restaurant Quality: Enjoy gourmet taste without leaving your home, creating memories around the dinner table. For a similar flavor boost, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Chicken Cordon Bleu will elevate your meal. Chicken Cordon Bleu Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 large; they provide a tender, juicy base for your dish. • Swiss cheese – 4 slices; adds creamy goodness inside each chicken pocket. • Ham – 4-6 slices; enhances the flavor with its savory richness. For the Breading • Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup; ensure a delightful crunch that elevates your Chicken Cordon Bleu. • Egg and flour or mayonnaise and Dijon – (1 egg + 2 tsp flour) or (3 tbsp mayo + 1.5 tbsp Dijon); serves as the perfect binding agent for that crispy exterior. For the Creamy Dijon Sauce • Butter – 1.5 tbsp; brings rich flavor as a base for your velvety sauce. • Flour – 1.5 tbsp; helps thicken the sauce for a luxurious mouthfeel. • Milk – 1 ¼ cups; creates the creamy texture that beautifully complements the chicken. • Parmesan cheese – 3 tbsp, grated; adds depth and enhances the sauce’s flavor. • Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp; gives a tangy kick; feel free to adjust it to your taste preferences. Embark on this culinary adventure with a meal that tantalizes the taste buds, one luscious bite of Chicken Cordon Bleu at a time! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a perfectly baked Chicken Cordon Bleu. This temperature is ideal for delivering the crispy, golden breadcrumbs while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. While the oven warms up, gather your equipment, including a baking dish, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for the next steps. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Butterfly the two chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, but not all the way through; this will create a pocket for the filling. Season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Then, lay slices of Swiss cheese and ham inside the pocket, making sure they are evenly distributed for a burst of flavor with each bite. Step 3: Secure the Filling Once filled, carefully fold the chicken breasts back over the filling and secure them with toothpicks to prevent any leakage during cooking. Ensure that the cheese and ham are tightly enclosed for a delightful surprise when you cut into your Chicken Cordon Bleu. It should look plump and ready for the next step, promising a savory experience ahead. Step 4: Prepare the Breading Station Set up a breading station by placing a bowl with your egg and flour mixture (or mayonnaise and Dijon) on one side and a plate of panko breadcrumbs on the other. Dip each chicken breast first in the binding mixture, ensuring an even coat, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered, creating that signature crispy exterior. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Place the breaded Chicken Cordon Bleu in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Transfer them to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks; the breadcrumbs should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the chicken will be fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Step 6: Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce While the chicken bakes, prepare the creamy Dijon sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1.5 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in 1.5 tablespoons of flour until well combined. Gradually add in 1 ¼ cups of milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard for that perfect tangy kick. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the Chicken Cordon Bleu is golden and cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks, then slice the chicken to reveal the delicious ham and Swiss filling. Drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce generously over each piece, and serve immediately to enjoy this exquisite dish! What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu Transform your dinner table into a delightful feast with these delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement your decadent chicken dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes offers a comforting contrast to the crispy chicken, while soaking up the creamy Dijon sauce. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus drizzled with garlic butter brings fresh brightness to your plate, balancing the rich flavors of the Cordon Bleu. Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad, tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, adds a refreshing crunch that lightens the overall meal, enhancing the dining experience. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, the slightly bitter crunch of steamed broccoli offers a wonderful textural counterpart, keeping your meal well-rounded and healthful. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs complements the savory filling of the chicken and serves as a delightful base that absorbs all those rich flavors. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and caramelized edges create a beautiful balance against the savory elements of the dish, making each bite a taste of heaven. Chardonnay or White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing drink, like a white wine spritzer, cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the meal’s richness and elevating your dining experience. Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a luscious chocolate fondue brings an indulgent finish, allowing your guests to savor a sweet ending that completes the culinary journey. Chicken Cordon Bleu Variations & Substitutions Customize your Chicken Cordon Bleu to match your cravings or dietary needs for the perfect family meal! Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile that brings richness and depth. Lean Chicken: Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a more succulent, juicy option with extra flavor. Turkey Option: Opt for turkey ham or smoked turkey breast for a lower-fat, delicious alternative without sacrificing taste. Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix for a delightful heat that’ll surprise your taste buds. Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist that adds flavor and flair to your dish. Vegetarian-Friendly: Try using eggplant slices or zucchini planks in place of chicken for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian version. Breading Adventure: Experiment by using crushed cornflakes or quinoa for the breading to create a unique crunch like you’d find in Tandoori Chicken Tikka or even Bbq Chicken Sweet. Crispy Air Fry: For a quicker alternative, air fry your breaded Chicken Cordon Bleu at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a lighter cooking method without compromising that crispy crunch! Try these variations to craft your perfect twist on this classic dish, and don’t hesitate to explore flavors that inspire you! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Cordon Bleu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the chicken and fill it with Swiss cheese and ham up to 24 hours in advance, covering tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain freshness. The panko crumb coating can also be prepped, but it’s best to coat the chicken just before baking to ensure maximum crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes. This strategy allows you to enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, making your busy weeknight dinners a breeze! Expert Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese for the best flavors. The taste of your Chicken Cordon Bleu truly relies on quality ingredients. Proper Sealing: Ensure the chicken is securely sealed when you fold it over the filling. This prevents the cheese and ham from leaking out while baking. Breading Technique: For extra crunch, press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. This helps create a more durable crust for your Chicken Cordon Bleu. Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring your chicken is safe to eat. Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu immediately after baking. The texture of the crust is most delightful when it’s hot and fresh. Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu a few hours in advance, and refrigerate before baking. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, making for a more impactful meal! Storage Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its crispy texture. Freezer: Freeze unbaked, assembled Chicken Cordon Bleu tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to cooking time. Reheating: To reheat baked Chicken Cordon Bleu, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through and the coating is crispy again. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu a few hours ahead of time and keep it in the fridge before baking for a quick weeknight meal. Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for my Chicken Cordon Bleu? Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for large, boneless, and skinless options that feel firm and moist. The color should be a light pink without any dark spots or bruises. High-quality chicken generally provides the best flavor and texture, making your Chicken Cordon Bleu taste exceptional! How can I store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crispy coating, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu? Absolutely! If you’re looking to store it for longer, the best method is to freeze unbaked, assembled Chicken Cordon Bleu. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s perfectly cooked. What should I do if the chicken filling leaks out during baking? Don’t worry, it happens! If your Chicken Cordon Bleu starts to leak during baking, try to prevent future leaks by ensuring that your chicken is sealed tightly after adding the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the edges, and press them down firmly when breading to help hold everything together. If it does happen, it can still be delicious! Just serve it as is—everyone loves a bit of cheese bubbling out! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe contains common allergens such as dairy and eggs. To make it gluten-free, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free options, and for a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese and a plant-based butter substitute. Enjoy your adaptation of Chicken Cordon Bleu, tailored to your dietary needs! Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time? Yes, indeed! You can assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu a few hours or even overnight before baking. Just cover it tightly in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delightful dish when you finally bake it! Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy Dijon Delight No ratings yet This Chicken Cordon Bleu features tender chicken breasts filled with Swiss cheese and ham, all wrapped in a crispy coating, delivering a bistro-like experience at home. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: FrenchCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 large Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender, juicy base for the dish.4 slices Swiss cheese Adds creamy goodness inside each chicken pocket.4-6 slices Ham Enhances the flavor with its savory richness.For the Breading1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Provides delightful crunch.1 egg Egg and flour or mayonnaise and Dijon (1 egg + 2 tsp flour) or (3 tbsp mayo + 1.5 tbsp Dijon).For the Creamy Dijon Sauce1.5 tbsp Butter Rich flavor base for the sauce.1.5 tbsp Flour Helps thicken the sauce.1.25 cups Milk Creates creamy texture.3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated Adds depth to the sauce's flavor.2 tbsp Dijon mustard Provides a tangy kick. Equipment baking dishcutting boardsharp knifesaucepanBowlsPlate Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon BleuPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather equipment including a baking dish, cutting board, and sharp knife.Butterfly the chicken breasts to create pockets, season with salt and pepper, and fill with Swiss cheese and ham.Fold chicken over filling and secure with toothpicks to prevent leakage.Set up a breading station with egg and flour mixture or mayo and Dijon on one side, and panko on the other. Dip chicken in the binding mixture, then coat with panko.Place breaded chicken in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Mix in Parmesan and Dijon.Let chicken rest, remove toothpicks, slice, drizzle with sauce, and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh ingredients for the best flavor and ensure chicken is securely sealed during preparation to prevent leakage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
