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Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: If the chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them out to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and helps the filling stay inside.
- Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board.
- Place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on top of each breast. If you like a cheesy filling, feel free to add an extra slice of cheese.
- Roll up the chicken tightly, securing the filling inside. You can use toothpicks to hold the rolls together if needed.
- Bread the Chicken:
- In one shallow dish, add the flour, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken roll first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each roll to help it crisp up in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove the toothpicks (if used), and serve the rolls hot. If desired, drizzle with a bit of Dijon mustard or serve with a side of fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Pounding the Chicken: To ensure even cooking and to make the chicken easier to roll, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook faster and ensures the filling stays inside.
- Use Thinly Sliced Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works best for this recipe as it’s easier to roll up and fits perfectly inside the chicken breasts.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella, or swap out the ham for prosciutto or turkey. The recipe is highly adaptable to suit your preferences.
- Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can prepare these in advance and freeze them before baking. Just assemble the chicken rolls, bread them, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, cook from frozen at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
There’s so much to love about Chicken Cordon Bleu cooked in the oven. Here are just a few reasons why this dish is a favorite in many homes:
- Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese is a classic that never goes out of style. The breadcrumb coating gives it a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken inside.
- Easy to Make: This oven-baked version is much easier than traditional frying, and it’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something fancy without the fuss.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer Swiss cheese or Gruyère, turkey ham or prosciutto, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can easily prepare these in advance, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining. Just assemble, freeze, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu cooked in the oven is a foolproof recipe that delivers all the delicious flavors of the classic dish without the need for frying. It’s healthier, cleaner, and just as indulgent, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or just craving a comforting meal, this oven-baked version is sure to impress.
So the next time you’re looking for a satisfying dinner that’s both easy and elegant, give this oven-baked Chicken Cordon Bleu a try. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that will quickly become a household favorite.
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