Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless classic that blends tender chicken breast with the savory flavors of ham and melted Swiss cheese. The term “Cordon Bleu,” which means “Blue Ribbon” in French, reflects the dish's roots in culinary excellence. Though it’s commonly associated with French cuisine, variations of this recipe are popular around the world. With its crispy golden crust and creamy Dijon sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of home. Perfect for dinner parties or a hearty family meal, Chicken Cordon Bleu is both elegant and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Rolls:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 16 slices Swiss cheese

• ½ pound thinly sliced ham

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 4 eggs, beaten

• 2 cups panko bread crumbs

• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying
  
  

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about ½ inch thick.

2. Roll the Chicken:
   Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese and 2 slices of ham on each flattened chicken breast. Roll each tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 30 minutes to firm them up.

3. Bread the Rolls:
   Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Dredge each roll in flour, dip in egg, and coat with panko crumbs.

4. Fry the Chicken:
   Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 325°F (170°C). Fry each chicken roll for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown. If needed, finish in a 325°F (170°C) oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Make the Dijon Sauce:
   In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Add Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve:
   Slice the crispy chicken rolls and drizzle with warm Dijon sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
   
   

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs beautifully with steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice pilaf. For added comfort, offer warm dinner rolls or a crusty baguette on the side.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 650 kcal

• Protein: 50 g

• Carbohydrates: 25 g

• Fat: 40 g

• Saturated Fat: 15 g

• Cholesterol: 200 mg

• Sodium: 900 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 2 g