Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese in this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. This updated take on a classic favorite pairs tender chicken breast with layers of ham and Swiss cheese, smothered in a luscious cream sauce that elevates every bite.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this dish during a family dinner years ago, but the traditional version felt too labor-intensive for busy weeknights. This simplified recipe keeps all the elegance and flavor while trimming the prep time, making it perfect for a special dinner or a cozy family meal.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a star in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Get ready to enjoy a dish that feels gourmet but is simple enough to pull off even on a weeknight. This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu checks all the right boxes for a perfect meal.

First, it's unbelievably easy to make. Unlike traditional cordon bleu that requires breading and frying, this version skips those steps while still delivering crispy, golden goodness thanks to a quick pan-sear and oven finish.

It’s also a one-pan wonder, cutting down on cleanup. With everything cooked in the same skillet, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time savoring your meal.

The creamy Dijon sauce takes this dish to the next level. It's rich and indulgent, with just the right balance of tanginess and savory depth, making every bite irresistible.

Lastly, this recipe is kid-approved and versatile, so even picky eaters will love it. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or whatever you have in your fridge.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple ingredients, each chosen to enhance the overall flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness for quick, uniform cooking. This ensures tender, juicy results every time.
• Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works perfectly here, adding a subtle smokiness that complements the chicken.
• Swiss Cheese: Go for sliced Swiss cheese for its nutty flavor and meltability. You can substitute with Gruyère for a more luxurious twist.
• Butter: A bit of butter helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Heavy Cream: The base for the rich, velvety sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half will work too, though the sauce will be less creamy.
• Dijon Mustard: The star of the sauce! Its tangy sharpness balances the richness of the cream.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and keeps the sauce from being overly heavy.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a whisk to make the creamy sauce smooth and lump-free.

How to Make This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creating this dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to bring it all together:

Start by prepping your chicken. Place the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to about ½ inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken cook faster. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Next, assemble the layers. Lay each chicken breast flat and place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top. Roll the chicken tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter. Once hot, sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely crust. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

In the same skillet, make the Dijon cream sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and add a splash of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer gently in the sauce until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Serve the chicken rolls drizzled with the sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of buttery mashed potatoes for a complete meal!

Storage Options

This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual chicken rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the chicken separately from the sauce.

To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Warm in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes or until heated through. Reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

• Cheese Swap: While Swiss is traditional, mozzarella or provolone are great options for a milder flavor. For a gourmet touch, try Gruyère or Fontina.
• Ham Alternatives: Prosciutto or turkey slices can be used for a different twist.
• Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, and use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with large, hollowed-out zucchini or eggplant slices. Fill with the same layers of ham and cheese, then bake in the sauce.
• Extra Crunch: If you miss the breadcrumb coating of traditional cordon bleu, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the chicken before baking.

Experiment with what you have on hand—this dish is forgiving and flexible!

With its irresistible layers of flavor, creamy sauce, and elegant presentation, this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something indulgent, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Bon appétit!

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