Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Posted on January 29, 2026

Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with ham and cheese in a crispy breading

introduction

This classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe is a cozy, picture-perfect dinner that feels fancy but comes together without fuss. Think crispy golden breading, savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and tender, juicy chicken — everything that gets saved to Pinterest and made again. I’ll walk you through a simple method that’s family-friendly and weekend-worthy.

If you love easy weeknight meals with a restaurant vibe, you might also enjoy inspiration from the Applebee’s-style grilled chicken sandwich for more chicken-centric ideas: Applebee’s grilled chicken sandwich recipe inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe :

Flavor-packed: ham + Swiss cheese + seasoned chicken = crowd-pleasing bites.
Crispy finish without deep-frying thanks to a cornflake or breadcrumb coating.
Make-ahead friendly: roll and chill for easier breading and stress-free cooking.
Family-approved: mild, cheesy, and familiar flavors kids and adults both enjoy.
Great for meal prep and reheats well for lunches or quick dinners.

Ingredients Needed :

Protein

2 large chicken breasts – Fresh chicken works best for tender (juicy results.)
4 slices of ham – Thinly sliced deli ham makes rolling easier and adds a savory touch.
4 slices or 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese – Freshly shredded or sliced cheese melts beautifully.

Coating & Fats

1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) – For a perfectly crispy, golden coating.
4 tablespoons butter (melted) – Helps the breading stick and adds richness.

Sauce

2 tablespoons mayonnaise – Creates a creamy (tangy sauce.)
1 teaspoon mustard – Adds a subtle zing to the sauce.

Seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently flatten them with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
Lay a slice of ham on each flattened chicken piece, followed by a slice or handful of shredded Swiss cheese. Spread the fillings evenly to make rolling easier and ensure every bite is flavorful.
Carefully roll up each chicken piece, tucking in the sides as you go. Use plastic wrap to secure the rolls tightly, twisting the ends to hold their shape. Chill the wrapped rolls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make breading easier.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Unwrap the chilled chicken rolls and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each roll into melted butter, then coat thoroughly with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Press the coating gently to ensure it sticks.
Place the breaded rolls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The coating should be golden and crispy, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
While the chicken bakes, mix mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl. Adjust the mustard to your taste for a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with the dish.

Serving Suggestions Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Slice the rolls into medallions and serve over buttery egg noodles or garlic mashed potatoes.
Pair with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp mixed-green salad for balance.
Use the creamy mayo-mustard sauce as a drizzle or dipping ramekin for plated servings.
For a brunch twist, serve slices alongside soft scrambled eggs and roasted tomatoes.

Tips for Success Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Pound the chicken evenly: consistent thickness prevents overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
Chill before breading: cold, firm rolls hold their shape and make coating much easier.
Press coatings firmly: pressing cornflakes or breadcrumbs into the butter layer helps them adhere and stay crispy.
Use an instant-read thermometer: remove at 160°F; carryover heat will bring it to the safe 165°F as it rests.
Try freshly shredded Swiss: it melts more smoothly than pre-sliced, especially when using shredded cheese.

Variations

Prosciutto & Gruyère: swap ham for prosciutto and Swiss for Gruyère for a saltier, nuttier profile.
Panko Parmesan Crust: mix 1/2 cup grated Parmesan into panko for an extra-crispy, cheesy crust.
Air-fryer method: cook at 375°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, for a faster, oil-free crisp.

FAQs

Q: Can I use thin-cut chicken cutlets instead of pounding the breasts?
A: Yes—thin-cut cutlets work perfectly and save prep time. Just place the ham and cheese and roll as directed.

Q: How do I keep the cheese from leaking out while baking?
A: Chill the rolls before breading, press the filling in tightly when rolling, and ensure a secure seam. The cold helps the cheese stay contained during baking.

Q: Can I freeze these before or after cooking?
A: Freeze unbaked, wrapped rolls on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before breading and baking. Fully cooked rolls also freeze well—reheat gently in the oven.

Q: What can I serve instead of the mayo-mustard sauce?
A: A light Dijon cream sauce, lemon-herb butter, or even a simple pan sauce made with white wine and chicken stock would pair nicely.

Conclusion

If you want another tested take on Chicken Cordon Bleu for comparison or extra tips, check out this reliable version from RecipeTin Eats: RecipeTin Eats’ Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. Enjoy — and don’t forget to save this one to your Pinterest recipe boards for easy weeknight inspiration!