Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken breasts rolled with savory slices of ham and melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating. The result is a gorgeous combination of crunch, flavor, and warm cheese that flows out beautifully when sliced — exactly like the mouth-watering dish you’ve shown. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or wanting to elevate a simple meal, this recipe always delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Let’s dive into the complete recipe.

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⭐ Ingredients 

(Serves 4)

For the Chicken Rolls

• 4 large chicken breasts

• 8 slices of cooked ham

• 4–8 slices Swiss cheese or mozzarella

• Salt and black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for spreading inside)

For the Breading

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 tbsp milk

• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crispiness)

• ½ cup crushed cornflakes (optional but amazing)

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• Oil for frying (or baking instructions included)

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1 cup milk

• ½ cup shredded cheese (Swiss or mozzarella)

• Salt & pepper

• ½ tsp Dijon mustard

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley (finely chopped)

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🔥 Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, pound the chicken until it's evenly thin — about 1 cm thick.

Season both sides with:

• Salt

• Pepper

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

Optional: Brush lightly with Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

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2. Layer the Filling

Lay 2 slices of ham over each flattened chicken breast.
Top with 1–2 slices of Swiss cheese or mozzarella.

Roll the chicken tightly from one end to the other.
Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unrolling.

Tip: Freeze the rolls for 10 minutes so they firm up and hold shape.

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3. Bread the Chicken

Prepare three bowls:

• Bowl 1: Flour

• Bowl 2: Eggs beaten with milk

• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with crushed cornflakes + dried parsley

Coat each chicken roll in this order:

1. Flour

2. Egg wash

3. Breadcrumb mixture

Press well so the crumbs stick firmly all around.

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4. Fry or Bake

Option A: Frying (Crispiest)

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Fry each chicken roll until golden brown — about 3–4 minutes per side.
Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes to cook through.

Option B: Baking (Healthier)

Place rolls on a greased baking tray.
Spray lightly with oil for better browning.
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 30–35 minutes until crisp and cooked through.

Internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

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5. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to create a smooth roux.

Slowly add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
Add cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Stir until smooth and creamy.

This sauce gives the dish that luxurious, restaurant-style finish.

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6. Serve

Slice each chicken roll into thick rounds.
Let the creamy cheese ooze beautifully from the center.
Drizzle with warm cheese sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve with:

• Steamed vegetables

• Mashed potatoes

• A fresh salad

• Buttered rice

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🌟 Chef Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

✔ Pound the chicken evenly — prevents thick areas that won’t cook properly.
✔ Freeze briefly before breading for a firmer roll.
✔ Use Panko + cornflakes for an extra crunchy crust.
✔ Let the rolls rest after baking to keep the cheese from spilling out too fast.
✔ Add two types of cheese for a richer melt — Swiss + mozzarella is perfect.

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❤️ Final Thought

Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those dishes that always impresses — elegant enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough to prepare at home. The combination of golden, crispy crust, tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted cheese is pure comfort. Once drizzled with the creamy sauce and garnished with fresh herbs, every slice becomes a luxurious bite.

This dish brings together texture, flavor, and presentation all in one plate — and it's guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to try it.

🍽️ Bon Appétit!