Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the chicken rolls

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 slices ham

• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or mozzarella / Gruyère)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For breading

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

For frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for shallow frying)

Creamy White Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk (warm)

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.

2. Pound gently with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch thick.

3. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Fill and Roll

1. Lay 2 slices of ham on each chicken breast.

2. Place cheese slices on top of the ham.

3. Roll the chicken tightly from one side to the other.

4. Secure with toothpicks or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to help the rolls hold their shape.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Prepare three bowls:

   • Bowl 1: Flour

   • Bowl 2: Eggs mixed with milk

   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs

2. Roll each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.

3. Dip into egg mixture.

4. Coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently.

Step 4: Fry (or Bake)

Frying method

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Fry the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).

3. Transfer to a baking tray and bake at 180°C / 350°F for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked.

Baking-only option

• Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 25–30 minutes, turning once for even browning.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

3. Slowly add warm milk while whisking constantly.

4. Add cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Cook until thick and smooth.

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove toothpicks from chicken.

2. Slice into thick pieces.

3. Spoon creamy sauce over the top.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

• French fries

• Mashed potatoes

• Steamed vegetables

• Fresh green salad