Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish, but the traditional preparation can be time-consuming. This recipe simplifies the process by baking the chicken, resulting in a wonderfully flavorful and convenient meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This baked version retains all the deliciousness of the original while significantly reducing prep time and cleanup.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Chicken cordon bleu is a dish featuring chicken breast wrapped around ham and cheese, often breaded and pan-fried or baked. The name itself, translating roughly from French to "blue ribbon chicken," speaks to its elegant and flavorful nature. Our baked version maintains the classic combination of chicken, ham, and cheese, but offers a simpler, healthier, and arguably even more delicious approach.
Ingredients for the Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of deli ham (or cooked ham, sliced)
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and prevents overly thick, uncooked centers.
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Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Lay out the ham slices. Top each slice of ham with a slice of Swiss cheese. Place a chicken breast on top of the cheese and ham, wrapping the ham and cheese around the chicken. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
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Bake the Chicken: Arrange the chicken cordon bleu in the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and melted butter. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese (if using) and season generously with salt and pepper.
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Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How long does it take to bake chicken cordon bleu?
The baking time for chicken cordon bleu can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and your oven. Generally, you can expect to bake it for 30-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken cordon bleu up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Adding a few extra minutes to the baking time might be necessary if the chicken is cold from the refrigerator.
What kind of cheese is best for chicken cordon bleu?
Swiss cheese is a classic choice for chicken cordon bleu, offering a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that complements the ham and chicken perfectly. However, you can experiment with other melting cheeses, such as Gruyere, provolone, or even mozzarella.
Is chicken cordon bleu healthy?
While not the absolute healthiest dish, chicken cordon bleu can be part of a balanced diet. Using lean chicken breast and reducing the amount of cheese can lower the overall fat and calorie content. This baked version is generally healthier than a pan-fried version due to the reduced oil.
Variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake:
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Add a creamy mushroom sauce to the baking dish for extra richness and flavor.
- Herb-Crusted: Sprinkle the chicken with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Dijon mustard mixture for a spicy twist.
This baked chicken cordon bleu is a simple yet impressive dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
