Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This cozy recipe is perfect for a special night at home. You get crispy chicken, melty cheese, and a silky sauce. It feels like a fancy restaurant meal in your own kitchen. This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is pure comfort on a plate.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish turns simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. It is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly winter evening. You will love how the crunchy Panko coating pairs with the gooey center. It looks impressive but uses basic pantry staples you likely have. Your family will feel extra special when you serve this tonight. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any dinner table.
Simple Method
Making this classic dish is much easier than it looks. You simply pound the chicken, roll it up, and bake. Using the oven keeps things simple and mess-free compared to frying. The cheese sauce comes together in just a few minutes on the stove. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this recipe. You will feel like a pro chef in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples you already have in your kitchen.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx. 6 oz each)
- 4 thin slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for sauce)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; place ham and Swiss on each, roll, and secure with toothpicks.
- Set up a dredging station with bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each roll in flour, dip in egg wash, and press into Panko until fully coated.
- Arrange on the baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour for 60 seconds.
- Gradually whisk in milk and stir until the liquid thickens and reaches a light boil.
- Stir in Swiss, Parmesan, and Dijon until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Remove toothpicks from the chicken and serve topped with the warm cheese sauce.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this golden-brown chicken while the cheese sauce is warm. It looks beautiful next to some roasted green beans or asparagus. A side of creamy mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. For a romantic date night, add a glass of white wine. Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy with your favorite person.
Storage & Reheating
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. To keep the coating crispy and light, reheat in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F for about ten minutes. You can also make the chicken rolls ahead of time. This makes holiday entertaining much easier for you.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip pounding the chicken for even cooking.
- Use toothpicks to keep everything tucked inside tightly.
- Press the Panko firmly so it sticks well to the chicken.
- Whisk the sauce constantly to keep it silky and smooth.
- For a winter twist, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
- Let the chicken rest for five minutes before removing toothpicks.
- Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap Swiss for provolone for a milder flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make it allergy-friendly.
- Add fresh spinach inside for a pop of healthy color.
- In summer, serve with a light lemon arugula salad instead.
- Try turkey slices instead of ham for a leaner option.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can roll and bread the chicken hours before baking. Keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
What if I don’t have a meat mallet?
You can use a heavy skillet or a rolling pin. Just be gentle so you do not tear the meat.
Will kids like this recipe?
Absolutely, because it is basically a fancy version of a chicken nugget. The melty cheese center is always a hit with picky eaters.
I hope this comforting meal brings joy to your dinner table tonight. It is the perfect way to show your family some extra love. Happy cooking, and enjoy every melty, crispy bite!
— Lidia
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx. 6 oz each)
- 4 thin slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup all -purpose flour
- 2 large eggs , whisked
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons all -purpose flour (for sauce)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each breast, roll tightly, and secure with toothpicks.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls containing flour, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs respectively.
- Coat each chicken roll in flour, dip in egg wash, and press into Panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Arrange chicken on the baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons melted butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the sauce by melting 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisking in 2 tablespoons flour for 60 seconds to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and continue stirring until the liquid thickens and reaches a light boil.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded Swiss, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Remove toothpicks from the rested chicken rolls and serve immediately topped with the warm cheese sauce.
