Introduction
Looking for a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu? This creamy version combines succulent chicken, savory ham, and rich melted cheese smothered in a luscious cream sauce that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in, this dish brings elegance and flavor to your table with ease.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 800g)
8 slices of cooked ham (about 200g)
200g Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
50g unsalted butter
30g all-purpose flour
250ml whole milk
100ml heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15ml)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
1 teaspoon onion powder (5g)
Salt and pepper to taste
50g breadcrumbs
30g grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s hot when your dish is ready for baking.
Prepare the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and slice it horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will allow you to stuff them, keeping all the delightful flavors inside.
Stuff the Chicken
For each chicken breast, insert 2 slices of cooked ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese. Once filled, secure the edges with toothpicks to prevent the stuffing from spilling out during cooking.
Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir to combine, cooking this roux for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
Whisk in Dairy
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency that beautifully coats the back of a spoon.
Add Flavor
Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and then remove the saucepan from heat.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour approximately 150ml of the creamy sauce into a baking dish, creating a luscious base for your chicken.
Arrange the Chicken
Gently place the stuffed chicken breasts over the cream sauce in the baking dish, ensuring they’re nestled comfortably.
Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the chicken for a crispy, flavorful finish.
Bake the Cordon Bleu
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F) and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and inviting.
Serve and Garnish
Plate the chicken and drizzle the remaining cream sauce over it. If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
Notes
Chicken Breasts
Make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results—this ensures a tender and juicy dish.
Ham and Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or ham, such as sharp Cheddar or smoked turkey, to create your ideal flavor profile.
Cooking Time
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 75°C (165°F) to be safe to eat.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it overnight, making it perfect for time-saving on busy weeknights or special occasions. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispness of the topping.
Cook techniques
Preparing Chicken Breast Pockets
To create pockets in chicken breasts, carefully slice each breast horizontally, stopping short of cutting all the way through to keep the halves connected. This technique allows for stuffing, ensuring that the flavor is locked inside.
Making a Roux
A roux is made by cooking equal parts flour and fat (butter in this case) over medium heat. Stir for about 2 minutes until it’s light golden, which helps thicken your cream sauce without any lumps.
Whisking a Cream Sauce
When adding liquids to the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually incorporate milk and cream, stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
Layering for Baking
When preparing the dish for baking, pour some cream sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent the chicken from drying out. This also allows the flavors to meld together as it cooks.
Breadcrumb Topping
Combine breadcrumbs with grated cheese for a crispy topping. This technique provides texture contrast to the creamy chicken, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses such as provolone or mozzarella, depending on your taste preference.
How can I ensure my chicken stays moist?
Stuffing the chicken breasts properly and using cream sauce during baking helps to keep the chicken moist. Baking at the correct temperature for the right time is also essential.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs well with side dishes like steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and the cream sauce ahead of time. Just assemble everything and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten up the recipe, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese, and also skip the breadcrumb topping for fewer calories.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Twist is an exquisite take on a classic dish that elevates any meal with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce creates a delightful experience that is sure to impress your guests. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe brings a touch of elegance and comfort to your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta
Delight in a Mediterranean twist by filling chicken breasts with sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a refreshing flavor profile.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Sauté chicken breasts in a rich mushroom sauce made with garlic, thyme, and cream for a hearty and comforting dinner option.
Chicken Alfredo Bake
Combine cooked chicken with pasta, Alfredo sauce, and Italian cheeses, then bake until golden and bubbly for an easy and creamy meal.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Coat chicken breasts with a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until crispy for a simple yet flavorful dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Mix tender chicken pieces with steamed broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs for a family-friendly casserole that’s easy to prepare.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Spice things up by filling bell peppers with shredded buffalo chicken and cream cheese, then bake until heated through for a deliciously bold meal.
