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Classic Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that has earned its place in the hearts and kitchens of many food lovers around the world. This delightful recipe pairs tender, juicy chicken with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also presents beautifully, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu, provide a detailed breakdown of its essential ingredients, and walk you through the initial preparation steps to ensure a successful cooking experience.

Classic Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu

Discover the timeless charm of Classic Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that combines tender chicken with savory ham and rich Swiss cheese, all encased in a crispy breadcrumb layer. This comprehensive guide explores its French origins, essential ingredients, and step-by-step preparation to ensure a perfect cooking experience. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this culinary delight brings people together around the table in a satisfying and elegant way. Dive into the recipe and impress your guests with this classic favorite!

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 slices of ham (Swiss or Black Forest recommended)

4 slices of Swiss cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon paprika

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

    Prepare Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly.

      Season Chicken: Once pounded, carefully remove the plastic wrap and season each side of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

        Assemble Cordon Bleu: Lay one slice of ham followed by a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Tightly roll them up, starting from one end, and secure with toothpicks if necessary.

          Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, set out the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.

            Bread the Chicken: Dredge each rolled chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.

              Bake: Place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispness. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

                Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks, and slice into rounds.

                  Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley alongside your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 4 servings