Chicken Cordon Bleu is a yummy dish where juicy chicken is wrapped around melty cheese and savory ham. It’s golden and crispy on the outside, making it super tempting!
Pair it with fresh asparagus that adds a nice crunch and splash of green. I like to think of it as fancy comfort food; fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts help keep the dish juicy and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute turkey breast.
Ham: While Swiss ham is traditional, Black Forest ham also adds a nice smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using roasted bell peppers or mushrooms as a filling alternative.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is great for its melting qualities. You could swap it out for provolone or gouda if you want a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For gluten-free, substitute with ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is wonderful, but you can also use thin green beans or even sautéed spinach for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Rolls Stay Together While Cooking?
Keeping your chicken rolls intact during baking is crucial! The best way is to roll them tightly, ensuring that the ends are tucked in. Using toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure them really helps. Make sure to place the seam-side down in the baking dish, which gives them extra stability while cooking.
- Use plastic wrap when pounding the chicken to minimize mess and keep it from tearing.
- Don’t overfill each roll with filling; this makes it harder to close.
- After you secure the rolls, you can use cooking spray on top to help it brown nicely.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham (preferably Swiss or Black Forest)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
For Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil or cooking spray for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, set aside around 45-50 minutes total. You’ll be delighted to serve these tasty chicken rolls, packed with gooey cheese and fresh asparagus!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help keep the chicken from sticking!
2. Pound the Chicken:
Next, lay the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Grab a meat mallet or a rolling pin, and gently pound the chicken until it’s about half an inch thick. This will help it cook evenly and be more tender.
3. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides of the chicken. This will add yummy flavor to your dish!
4. Add Filling:
Now, place 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Top it with a few pieces of the trimmed asparagus—this will make your rolls colorful and delicious!
5. Roll and Secure:
Carefully start rolling up each chicken breast tightly from one end, enclosing all those tasty fillings. Use toothpicks or some kitchen twine to secure them; this helps keep everything in place while cooking.
6. Set Up Breading Station:
In three shallow dishes, set up your breading station: put flour in one, beat the eggs in another, and place the breadcrumbs in the last one. This will make it easier to coat the chicken evenly.
7. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken roll and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any extra. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs stick!
8. Place in Baking Dish:
Put the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down into your greased baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top or spray them lightly with cooking spray to help achieve golden brown perfection.
9. Bake:
Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake the chicken rolls for about 25-30 minutes. They’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the crust is beautiful and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
10. Rest and Slice:
Once they’re baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. After that, carefully take out the toothpicks or twine and slice the rolls into rounds.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus on plates, perhaps with a nice side salad or your favorite sides. Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy chicken, melted cheese, and tender asparagus!
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus!
Can I Substitute the Cheese or Ham?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or gouda, and swap the ham for turkey, prosciutto, or even spinach for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the flavors complement each other!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, but they may yield a slightly less crunchy texture. You can also crush crackers or use finely chopped nuts for a unique twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms inside the rolls. Just chop them finely to ensure they cook through. You might want to sauté firmer vegetables before adding them, so they soften nicely!
