Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy White Sauce Recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu with Creamy White Sauce recipe is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese, all topped with a rich and creamy sauce. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for both family dinners and special occasions.
Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Skillet
- Oven
- Toothpicks
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 thin slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter or olive oil for frying
For the Creamy White Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg optional
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken:
- Butterfly the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a thinner slice. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Tenderize: Place each piece between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet to even thickness.
- Season: Sprinkle each piece with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stuff: Place a slice of ham and cheese on each chicken breast, fold over to enclose the filling.
- Secure: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts.
Breading and Cooking:
- Dredge: Coat each chicken roll in flour.
- Cook: In a large skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Bake: Transfer the chicken to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Making the Sauce:
- Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine: Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth or wine. Keep whisking to avoid lumps.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Serving:
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking.
- Serve: Slice the chicken rolls, if desired, and serve with the creamy white sauce drizzled over the top.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use low-fat cheese and milk.
- Chicken breasts can be replaced with thin chicken cutlets to save on preparation time.
- The dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before cooking, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven for best results.