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Chicken Cordon Bleu is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy coating. Its name, French for “blue ribbon,” hints at its award-worthy flavor, but don’t let the fancy title intimidate you—this version is designed for home cooks who want maximum taste with minimal fuss. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using just a handful of ingredients, including shredded chicken, Swiss cheese, butter, and a touch of Dijon mustard for zing. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and pre-shredded chicken to save time.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients or add your favorite spices to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the cheesy, crispy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it early and bake when ready for stress-free meals.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few key components that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to serve 6:

• 5 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken, shredded for convenience)
• 8 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced (approximately 12 slices for layering and melting)
• 12 thin slices of deli ham (about 8 ounces, to wrap the chicken)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for a rich, golden crust)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang to elevate the flavor)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy coating)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra savory depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness and color)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to season the breadcrumb mixture)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (to help the breadcrumbs adhere)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Optional Ingredients for Customization

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for a vibrant garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (to mix into the breadcrumbs for extra umami)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for a herby twist in the coating)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
• Shallow dishes for breading (e.g., pie plates)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or forks for handling chicken
• Oven mitts
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe transforms shredded chicken into elegant Chicken Cordon Bleu roll-ups with a crispy exterior and a cheesy, ham-filled interior. Follow these steps for foolproof results.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:

• Dish 1: Beat the 2 eggs.
• Dish 2: Combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. (Optional: Stir in grated Parmesan or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.)
• Dish 3: Leave empty for now (you’ll use it for the coated chicken).

Step 2: Form the Chicken Roll-Ups

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 5 cups of shredded chicken with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Mix until the mustard is evenly distributed, adding a subtle tangy kick.
2. Lay out a slice of deli ham on a clean work surface. Place a small handful of the shredded chicken mixture (about 1/3 cup) in the center of the ham slice.
3. Top the chicken with a slice of Swiss cheese, folding or trimming the cheese if needed to fit.
4. Roll the ham tightly around the chicken and cheese, creating a compact bundle. Repeat with the remaining ham, chicken, and cheese to make approximately 12 roll-ups.

Step 3: Bread the Roll-Ups

1. Dip each ham-chicken roll-up into the beaten eggs, coating it completely.
2. Transfer the roll-up to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick evenly. Use your hands or a spoon to sprinkle extra crumbs over any bare spots.
3. Place the breaded roll-up in the prepared baking dish, seam side down. Repeat until all roll-ups are coated and arranged snugly in the dish.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

1. Drizzle the 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter evenly over the breaded roll-ups. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust as they bake.
2. (Optional) Sprinkle a pinch of extra panko or chopped parsley over the top for added texture and visual appeal.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the Chicken Cordon Bleu roll-ups in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. If the tops aren’t crispy enough, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
3. Remove from the oven and let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the cheese set slightly for cleaner slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Starches: Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, or buttered egg noodles make cozy companions.
• Sauces: While the roll-ups are flavorful on their own, a drizzle of creamy Dijon sauce (made with cream, Dijon mustard, and a splash of white wine) or a simple hollandaise can take it to the next level.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a pinch of paprika for a pop of color.

Tips for Success

• Use Pre-Shredded Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken breasts. Shred finely for easier rolling.
• Keep Cheese Contained: Trim or fold Swiss cheese slices to prevent them from oozing out during baking.
• Make It Crunchier: Double-dip the roll-ups in egg and breadcrumbs for an extra-thick, crispy coating.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, especially since the chicken is pre-cooked but needs to heat through.

Variations to Try

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and wrap the ham and cheese around the chicken without breading. Bake until the cheese is melty.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap Swiss for Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone for a new flavor profile.
• Bacon Twist: Replace ham with thin slices of bacon for a smokier, richer taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make-Ahead

• Assemble the roll-ups (without breading) up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
• Bread and bake just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to recrisp the coating.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked, breaded roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes, adding extra time as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of shredded chicken?
Yes! Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness, layer with ham and cheese, roll up, and bread as directed. Increase baking time to 35–40 minutes to ensure the chicken cooks through.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?
Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar can work in a pinch, though Swiss or Gruyère offers the classic nutty flavor.

How do I prevent the roll-ups from falling apart?
Roll the ham tightly and place seam side down in the baking dish. The egg and breadcrumb coating also helps hold everything together.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Roll-Up)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g

Note: Nutritional values vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is your ticket to a delicious, impressive meal without the hassle of traditional methods. By using shredded chicken and a simplified rolling technique, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is approachable, adaptable, and sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments or on social media!

Happy cooking!

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