Chicken Cordon Bleu With Cheese Sauce

Wow, I can’t believe how yummy this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce is. It’s crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-tasty. Let me tell you all about it!

I first tried it when I wanted something fancy but easy. The ham inside gives a salty surprise. And oh, that creamy cheese sauce is just perfect.

I can’t stop thinking about the juicy chicken. Each bite feels like a mini celebration in my mouth. Seriously, it tastes so good.

So, let’s do this together. Let’s whip up this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Cheese Sauce right now. You’re gonna love every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress guests with this gourmet dish that tastes just as good as (or better than!) a fancy restaurant version.
• Perfectly Crispy Exterior, Melted Cheese Inside – The contrast between the crunchy breadcrumb coating and gooey cheese filling makes this dish an absolute favorite.
• Rich, Creamy Cheese Sauce – A smooth, cheesy sauce takes this dish from great to unforgettable.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep everything in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable – You can swap out the ham and cheese for different varieties to change the flavor profile.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Mastering the Chicken Roll

• Thin and Even is Key – The chicken breast needs to be pounded thin (¼-inch thick) to ensure even cooking and a beautiful spiral when rolled.
• Secure the Roll Properly – Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the roll intact while cooking.
• Seal the Edges – Make sure the cheese and ham are tucked inside to prevent any leakage while baking.

The Secret to a Crispy, Golden Coating

• Triple Breading for Maximum Crunch – First flour, then egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs—this ensures a light yet ultra-crispy crust.
• Panko Breadcrumbs Over Regular – They create a crispier texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
• Use a Wire Rack for Even Crispiness – Placing the chicken on a wire rack in the oven allows air to circulate for even browning.

Prep Time & Cook Time

Stage	Time Required
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cooking Time	40 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

This means you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in about an hour!

Servings

• This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family meal.
• Want to feed more? Simply double the ingredients and bake on a larger sheet pan.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate: While the steps are straightforward, rolling the chicken neatly and breading it properly requires some care. Even if you’re a beginner, don’t worry—follow the instructions, and you’ll nail it!

Required Kitchen Tools

To achieve the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need:

• Meat mallet – To pound the chicken evenly.
• Sharp knife – For slicing the chicken and cheese.
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper – To place over the chicken while pounding to prevent tearing.
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine – To hold the roll together while cooking.
• 3 shallow bowls – For the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
• Large skillet – For an optional pre-sear before baking.
• Baking sheet with a wire rack – For crispy, evenly cooked chicken.
• Small saucepan – For the cheese sauce.
• Whisk – To blend the sauce smoothly.

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu

For the Chicken:

To make the perfect Cordon Bleu rolls, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness)
• 4 slices of high-quality ham (Black Forest or honey ham works great)
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (to season the chicken)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (for added depth)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for the first breading layer)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (to help the breadcrumbs stick)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy, golden crust)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor in the breadcrumbs)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (adds a mild smoky touch)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing before baking)

For the Cheese Sauce:

This luscious cheese sauce adds another layer of indulgence:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a smooth base)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (rich, creamy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
• 1 cup whole milk (for a smooth consistency)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (enhances the flavor)
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (brings warmth to the sauce)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (for a slight kick)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (salty, nutty flavor)
• ¼ cup Swiss cheese, shredded (melts beautifully)
• ¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (adds extra richness)

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Flatten the Chicken:
   • Place one chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it’s ¼-inch thick.Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
   Pro Tip: Pounding the chicken evenly ensures it cooks at the same rate and helps with easy rolling.
2. Season the Chicken:
   • Lightly season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.

Step 2: Add the Filling and Roll the Chicken

1. Layer the Ham and Cheese:
   • Place one slice of ham on top of each flattened chicken breast.Add one slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
   Optional Variation: For extra cheesiness, add ½ an additional cheese slice inside each roll.
2. Roll it Up:
   • Carefully roll the chicken breast tightly from one end to the other, keeping the ham and cheese inside.
   • Tuck in the edges as you roll to prevent cheese from leaking out while baking.
3. Secure the Roll:
   • Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the roll together.If using toothpicks, insert them diagonally to keep the shape intact.
   Pro Tip: Make sure the seam side is facing down when placing the rolls on a plate to keep them from unraveling.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

For a crispy, golden-brown exterior, we use a three-step breading method:

1. Prepare 3 Shallow Bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Add flour, garlic powder, and paprika – mix well.
   • Bowl 2: Beat 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
   • Bowl 3: Add panko breadcrumbs.
2. Bread the Chicken:
   • Step 1: Lightly coat each chicken roll in flour (shake off excess).Step 2: Dip into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.Step 3: Roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
   Pro Tip: Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before cooking—this helps the coating stay crisp.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

You have two cooking options: bake or pan-sear & bake for extra crispiness.

Option 1: Baking (Healthier Version)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray (for even crispiness).
3. Arrange the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down on the rack.
4. Lightly brush with olive oil (helps in browning).
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Option 2: Pan-Sear & Bake (Crispier)

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
4. Let rest before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Make the Roux:
   • Add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute until smooth.
3. Add the Milk & Spices:
   • Slowly pour in 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   • Add garlic powder, mustard paste, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt.
   • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
4. Melt the Cheeses:
   • Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in:
     • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese¼ cup Swiss cheese¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese
     Stir until smooth and fully melted.
   Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Plating for the Best Presentation

• Place each golden, crispy chicken roll on a plate and carefully slice it at a slight angle for a stunning cross-section of ham and melted cheese.
• Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for extra elegance.

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With It

This rich dish pairs best with lighter sides to balance the flavors. Here are some excellent options:

Vegetable Sides

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts provide a fresh contrast.
• Simple Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette keeps the meal balanced.

Carb Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting addition.
• Garlic Butter Rice: A lightly seasoned rice dish complements the rich flavors.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: Simple and satisfying.

Bread & Extras

• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for mopping up extra cheese sauce.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon can enhance the flavors and cut through the richness.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cheese Sauce: Store separately in a sealed container for up to 4 days.

Best Way to Reheat

To keep the chicken crispy, avoid microwaving directly. Instead, use:

• Oven (Best Method):
  • Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• Air Fryer (Quickest Method):
  • Set to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop (For the Cheese Sauce):
  • Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently.
  • Add a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Looking to change things up? Here are some exciting variations:

Meat Swaps

• Turkey or Chicken Ham: Use turkey ham for a leaner option.
• Prosciutto: Adds a saltier, more intense flavor.
• Bacon-Wrapped Cordon Bleu: Wrap the chicken in bacon before breading for extra smokiness.

Cheese Alternatives

• Mozzarella: For a stretchier, milder taste.
• Gruyère: Adds a nutty depth.
• Provolone: A sharper flavor with great melting properties.

Healthier & Low-Carb Option

• Bake Instead of Fry: Stick with the baking method to reduce oil.
• Use Almond Flour Instead of Panko: For a keto-friendly version.
• Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a crispy, lower-fat alternative.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~500 kcal
Protein	45g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fat	26g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g

Chicken Cordon Bleu FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Yes! You can roll and bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Absolutely! After breading, place the rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

3. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

• Roll the chicken tightly, ensuring all edges are sealed.
• Secure with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking—this helps the cheese settle.

4. What’s the best cheese for Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Classic Swiss cheese melts beautifully, but Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone are great options too.

5. Can I air-fry Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu with homemade cheese sauce is a truly indulgent meal that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make this gourmet dish right at home—whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.