Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless classic—a dish that feels elegant, comforting, and indulgent all at once. Originating from European cuisine (mostly associated with France and Switzerland), this dish features tender chicken breast that’s stuffed with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, then rolled, breaded, and baked or fried to golden perfection.

The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, juicy chicken, smoky ham, and melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors that taste gourmet yet comforting like home-cooked food.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it represents culinary balance: tender yet crispy, savory but creamy, elegant yet simple. Each bite feels like a restaurant-quality experience without requiring complicated techniques. The chicken stays moist, the cheese melts beautifully, and the Dijon sauce brings a tangy sharpness that ties everything together.

It also feels special—perfect for holidays, date nights, or dinner parties—but easy enough to enjoy on a regular weeknight.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

You must try Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon sauce because:

• It’s impressive and delicious—perfect for guests or celebrations.
• The flavor layers (ham, cheese, crispy coating, and creamy sauce) are unforgettable.
• It’s customizable—use different cheeses, proteins, seasonings, or cooking methods.
• It’s a restaurant favorite, yet surprisingly simple and rewarding to make at home.

It’s a dish that will make you proud every time you serve it.

Prep & Cooking Time

Task	Time
Preparation Time	20–25 minutes
Cooking Time	25–30 minutes
Total Time	45–55 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Serves: 4
• Calories (approx.): 550–650 per serving (with sauce)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: French / European Classic

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices cooked ham
• 4 slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Toothpicks (to secure rolls)

Breading

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

For the Dijon Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (more to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Butterfly each chicken breast and pound gently until thin (about ¼-inch thick).
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Fill and Roll

1. Place a slice of ham and cheese on each flattened chicken breast.
2. Roll tightly like a pinwheel and secure with toothpicks.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Coat rolls in flour and shake off excess.
2. Dip in beaten eggs.
3. Coat in breadcrumbs.
4. Place on a lined baking tray and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Dijon Sauce

1. Melt butter in a small saucepan.
2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in milk or cream, whisking constantly until thick.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, Parmesan (optional), salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.

How to Serve

Serve each chicken roll sliced into medallions or whole. Generously spoon Dijon sauce over the top. Pair with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Buttered noodles
• Steamed asparagus or green beans

Add chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Recipe Tips

✔ Chill rolled chicken for 10 minutes before breading to help keep shape.
✔ Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unrolling during baking.
✔ Panko breadcrumbs make the crust extra crispy.
✔ Don’t overcook—the chicken should stay juicy and tender.

Variations

Style	Ingredients
Air Fryer	Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 15–18 minutes
Italian Style	Use prosciutto and provolone cheese
Low-Carb/Keto	Skip breadcrumbs and sear directly in a skillet
Spinach-Stuffed	Add cooked spinach along with ham and cheese
Herb-Crusted	Mix parsley, thyme, and parmesan into breadcrumbs

Storage & Freezing

Method	Duration
Refrigeration	3 days
Frozen (raw, breaded)	Up to 3 months
Frozen (cooked)	2 months

Special Equipment Needed

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Baking tray
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine
• Saucepan for Dijon sauce

FAQ

Q: Can I fry instead of bake?
Yes—pan fry until golden, then finish in the oven.

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely—thin turkey cutlets work beautifully.

Q: What cheese melts best?
Swiss, Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon sauce is a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The crispy coating, melted cheese, flavorful ham, and creamy mustard sauce come together to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe brings restaurant-level satisfaction to your home kitchen.