Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu: Dinner Recipes That Don’t Need a Big Grocery List

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or require a massive shopping trip.

This easy chicken cordon bleu recipe is here to prove just that! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious without all the fuss.

Forget about spending hours in the kitchen or hunting down obscure ingredients. This recipe focuses on simple, readily available items to bring a classic dish to your family table in a fraction of the time.

Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu

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• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This easy chicken cordon bleu recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and delicious meal without complicated steps or obscure ingredients. It transforms basic chicken thighs into a classic dish with savory ham and melty cheese, ideal for a quick family dinner or a casual gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

4 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)

4 slices Swiss cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg, beaten

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Lay each boneless, skinless chicken thigh flat. If they are very thick, gently pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Assemble the Filling: On each flattened chicken thigh, place one slice of ham, followed by one slice of Swiss cheese. Ensure the ham and cheese cover most of the chicken surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

3. Roll Them Up: Carefully roll each chicken thigh tightly, starting from one end. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure. If needed, you can secure the rolls with a toothpick.

4. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk the egg until it’s well beaten. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing well.

5. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each rolled chicken thigh first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere completely to all sides.

6. Sear for Golden Perfection: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy all over.

7. Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375 F (190 C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you used toothpicks, remove them before serving.

8. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: main dish
• Method: pan-fried, baked
• Cuisine: french

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken roll

Keywords: chicken, cordon bleu, easy, weeknight, dinner, ham, swiss cheese, baked, quick, family

What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This recipe is a true weeknight warrior, designed for busy families and anyone looking for a comforting meal without the culinary acrobatics. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for those evenings when time is short but you still want a homemade touch. It’s a fantastic way to transform basic chicken thighs into something special, offering a delightful combination of savory ham and melty cheese encased in tender chicken. This dish is perfect for a casual family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a simple gathering with friends where you want to impress without stress. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone meal but also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

One of the best parts about this chicken cordon bleu is its reliance on staple ingredients you likely already have or can easily grab at any grocery store. No specialty shops required! We’re keeping it simple and delicious.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

For simple substitutions, feel free to use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand, just be sure to pound them thin enough to roll. Provolone or mozzarella can stand in for Swiss cheese if you prefer a milder flavor or have it readily available. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can omit it or add a little extra garlic powder for flavor. For the breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crispy coating, but standard breadcrumbs work perfectly well.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

This recipe is designed for speed and efficiency, making it perfect for a quick dinner.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken and the accuracy of your oven, but generally, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under 45 minutes.

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Creating this delicious chicken cordon bleu is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish every time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Lay each boneless, skinless chicken thigh flat. If they are very thick, you can gently pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to roll. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Filling: On each flattened chicken thigh, place one slice of ham, followed by one slice of Swiss cheese. Make sure the ham and cheese cover most of the chicken surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Roll Them Up: Carefully roll each chicken thigh tightly, starting from one end. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure. If needed, you can secure the rolls with a toothpick, though often the tightness of the roll is enough.
4. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk the egg until it’s well beaten. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing well.
5. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each rolled chicken thigh first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere completely to all sides.
6. Sear for Golden Perfection: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy all over. This step adds incredible flavor and texture.
7. Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you used toothpicks, remove them before serving.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

This chicken cordon bleu is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions. For a kid-friendly twist, you can use milder cheeses like mozzarella or even a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. If your kids aren’t keen on ham, try using thinly sliced turkey breast instead. You can also cut the cooked chicken into smaller “nugget” pieces for easier eating.

For a different flavor profile, consider adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard to the chicken before adding the ham and cheese. This gives it a classic cordon bleu tang. You could also sprinkle in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic boost. If you want a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the breadcrumbs works wonders.

When it comes to serving, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a side of mashed potatoes are also excellent choices. For a heartier meal, serve it with rice pilaf or a creamy pasta dish. For a party or buffet, you can slice the cooked chicken into medallions and arrange them on a platter, perhaps with a small bowl of honey mustard or a creamy herb dip on the side.

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can have common pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure your chicken cordon bleu turns out perfectly every time:

• Overstuffing the Chicken: Resist the urge to pile on too much ham and cheese. Too much filling makes it difficult to roll the chicken tightly, leading to the filling oozing out during cooking. Keep it to one slice of each per thigh.
• Not Pounding Chicken Evenly: If your chicken thighs are unevenly thick, some parts will cook faster than others, resulting in dry spots. Take the time to pound them to a uniform 1/2-inch thickness for consistent tenderness.
• Loose Rolls: If the chicken isn’t rolled tightly, the filling can escape, and the chicken might unroll during cooking. Roll firmly and tuck in the sides. If you’re concerned, a toothpick can be your best friend!
• Skipping the Searing Step: Searing isn’t just for color; it creates a delicious, crispy crust and locks in moisture. Don’t skip this step, as it significantly enhances the texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and then remove it from the oven promptly. A few minutes of resting will also help keep it juicy.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Don’t forget to season the chicken itself with salt and pepper before adding the filling, and ensure your breadcrumb mixture is well-seasoned. This builds layers of flavor.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

This chicken cordon bleu is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly store leftovers or prepare parts of it in advance.

Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftover cooked chicken cordon bleu to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, the best method is to use an oven or air fryer to help restore some of the crispiness. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. An air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes also works wonderfully. Microwaving is an option for speed, but it will result in a softer coating.

Making Ahead: You can prepare the chicken rolls up to the breading stage a day in advance. After

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.