Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something that’s both quick to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu! This isn’t your grandma’s complicated, time-consuming cordon bleu. This version is streamlined for busy lives, packed with healthy ingredients, and still delivers that classic, comforting taste you love. As a mom always juggling work and family, I needed a recipe that was both satisfying and doable. This Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu fits the bill perfectly, and I know it will become a family favorite in your home too.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
I’ll always remember my first trip to Switzerland. Nestled in a cozy little bistro in Zermatt, I tasted Chicken Cordon Bleu for the first time. The combination of crispy breading, savory ham, and melted cheese was pure culinary magic. Inspired by that experience, I created this Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe to bring a taste of the Swiss Alps to your kitchen, without the need for a plane ticket! It captures the essence of that dish while being incredibly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Filling:
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken: Gently slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each pocket.
- Set up the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another dish, place the beaten eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure it’s completely coated.
- Bake: Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and stir in the Swiss cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy sauce over the baked Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu and serve immediately! Enjoy!