If you love the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but want a quicker, easier version that still delivers on taste, Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu is the recipe for you. This delicious dish features tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked to golden, crispy perfection. It’s a comforting, savory meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions without all the fuss of traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu.

What makes this dish so special is the simplicity and crispiness of the breading combined with the rich flavors of melted cheese and savory ham. The chicken stays juicy on the inside, while the breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch on the outside. It’s a lighter take on the classic, baked instead of fried, but still incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

I first made this Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu when I was craving the comforting flavors of the traditional dish, but wanted something quicker and easier to prepare. The result was a hit, and it’s now one of my go-to recipes for a delicious and filling meal. I’m sure it’ll be a hit in your home too!

Why This Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Will Be Your New Favorite

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients and no complicated steps, this recipe comes together quickly for a delicious meal.
• Crispy, golden crust: The breading creates a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, cheesy filling inside.
• Classic flavors: The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese is a timeless favorite that’s always satisfying.
• Baked, not fried: This version is lighter than traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, as it’s baked instead of fried, but it still retains all the flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

What You Need For Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of ham (preferably deli-style or cooked ham)
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

How to Make Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the chicken:
   Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly.
3. Assemble the chicken:
   Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll the chicken up tightly around the ham and cheese, securing the edges with toothpicks if needed to hold everything in place.
4. Bread the chicken:
   In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken roll into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs and coat it with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
5. Bake the chicken:
   Place the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
6. Serve and enjoy:
   Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu!

Tips For Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Pound the chicken evenly: Be sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and are easier to roll up.
• Use toothpicks to secure: If the chicken starts to unroll during baking, secure it with toothpicks. Just remember to remove them before serving.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra-crispy crust, but regular breadcrumbs can also be used if you prefer.
• Add herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning on the chicken before breading.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different cheese: If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can substitute it with provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor.
• Turkey or chicken ham: For a lighter version, you can substitute the ham with turkey or a low-sodium version of ham.
• Gluten-free version: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Make sure the ham is also gluten-free if needed.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Baked instead of fried: This recipe is already baked rather than fried, but you can reduce the oil or use a cooking spray to lower the fat content.
• Lower-fat cheese: Use reduced-fat Swiss cheese or any lower-fat cheese of your choice to cut down on calories and fat.

Closing For Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

And there you have it! Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu is the perfect combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all encased in a crispy, golden breading. It’s a simpler version of the classic, with all the flavor and none of the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish will be a hit. Don’t forget to let us know how your Chicken Cordon Bleu turns out, and be sure to check out more of our easy, delicious chicken recipes for even more inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze these chicken rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken rolls before baking. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey breast or pork tenderloin for a different flavor, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute Swiss cheese with provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with this dish?
These chicken rolls pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the breading mixture or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I fry these instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry the breaded chicken rolls in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Easy Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 slices of ham (preferably deli-style or cooked ham)

• 4 slices of Swiss cheese

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Directions

• Preheat the oven:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
• Prepare the chicken:
• Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Assemble the chicken:
• Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll the chicken up tightly around the ham and cheese, securing the edges with toothpicks if needed to hold everything in place.
• Bread the chicken:
• In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken roll into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs and coat it with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
• Bake the chicken:
• Place the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
• Serve and enjoy:
• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu!