– 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil or cooking spray
– Optional: parsley for garnish
Creating Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu at home is straightforward if you follow these clear steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Chicken Cordon Bleu cooks evenly.
2. Flatten the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to about ½ inch thick using a meat mallet. This helps the chicken cook thoroughly.
3. Season: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor and makes it delicious.
4. Layer Ham and Cheese: Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll them up tightly, starting from one end.
5. Secure the Rolls: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the ends of the chicken rolls, ensuring that the filling doesn’t escape during cooking.
6. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up a breading station by placing flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third dish.
7. Bread the Chicken: First, dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs until fully covered.
8. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
9. Place the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken rolls in the prepared baking dish. Be sure to leave space between each piece.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior is golden brown.
11. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving for a neat presentation.