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Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce brings together crispy breaded chicken, savory turkey slices, and gooey Swiss cheese for a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. I reach for this recipe whenever I want to impress at family dinners or just bring some excitement to a weeknight meal, especially when the weather calls for something hearty and warm. Once you taste that creamy cheese sauce pooling around the golden chicken rolls, you will know why this classic is such a dinnertime favorite.
The very first time I served this on a Sunday, it was gone before I even sat down. Now everyone in my house asks for double sauce because it is that irresistible.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless skinless works best as you can easily pound them even Choose smaller breasts for easier rolling
- Turkey slices: Deli style turkey adds a subtle smoky note and prevents the cheese from oozing out Use freshly sliced for the best flavor
- Swiss cheese: Creamy mild and perfect for melting Go for aged Swiss for a deeper taste
- Breadcrumbs: Panko keeps things extra crisp If possible toast them for even more crunch
- Eggs: Eggs help the coating stick and provide a rich golden color
- Flour: This is your base for dredging Stick to all purpose and sift for a smooth coating
- Milk: Adds moisture to both the egg wash and the cheese sauce Whole milk gives the richest result
- Butter: Essential for pan searing and for that silky sauce Choose unsalted so you can control seasoning
- Garlic powder: An easy way to infuse flavor throughout your breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper: A pinch of both brings out the best in every layer Freshly cracked black pepper is worth the extra step
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Lay each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap Pound out to about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking and easy rolling
- Layer and Roll:
- Arrange two slices of turkey and one slice of Swiss cheese on top of each pounded chicken breast Carefully roll them up as tightly as possible then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unraveling
- Set Up a Breading Station:
- Prepare three shallow bowls One for flour one for lightly beaten eggs whisked with a splash of milk and one for panko breadcrumbs tossed with garlic powder
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken roll in flour making sure to cover completely Next dip into the egg and milk mixture coating every seam Finally roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs pressing gently for a thick even layer
- Brown the Rolls:
- Heat half of your butter in a large skillet over medium heat Sear the rolls on all sides until golden brown about four to five minutes per side This step develops deep flavor you will taste in every bite
- Bake to Finish:
- Arrange the browned chicken rolls in a baking dish Slide into the preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes Check that the internal temp reaches one hundred sixty five degrees for juicy perfectly cooked meat
- Make the Swiss Cheese Sauce:
- Melt the rest of the butter in a small saucepan Whisk in a spoonful of flour to form a roux then slowly pour in milk stirring constantly Add in Swiss cheese bit by bit until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks slice each roll if you like and spoon generously with the warm cheese sauce Nothing beats that first bite through the crunchy crust and melty filling
My favorite part is scraping up those saucy edges from the bottom of the pan After many birthdays and special dinners this dish is famous with my crew for the sauce alone
Storage and Leftover Tips
Chicken Cordon Bleu stores well and reheats beautifully Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they will stay tasty for up to three days Reheat slices gently in the oven or a covered skillet with a splash of broth Microwaving works but you will lose some crispness The cheese sauce should be stored separately and whisked smooth when reheated
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have turkey deli ham is just as traditional and brings a smoky sweetness For cheese try Gruyere or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist Gluten free breadcrumbs or ground puffed rice will make this dish safe for gluten sensitive friends Even plant based butter and nut milk can work in the cheese sauce with a little patience
Perfect Ways to Serve This
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette makes a perfect contrast to the richness of the chicken Steamed asparagus tossed with lemon zest is a classic French pairing For cozy nights ladle extra cheese sauce on the side of roasted potatoes For gatherings I slice each roll into coins and serve on a platter as party appetizers with tiny forks
Making Chicken Cordon Bleu at home is much easier than it looks and always impresses at the table. The cheesy sauce truly makes it unforgettable—do not skip extra for leftovers.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you prevent cheese from leaking out?
Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the edges and keep cheese inside while baking.
- → Can I use ham instead of turkey?
Ham slices can substitute for turkey for a more traditional flavor, pairing well with Swiss cheese and chicken.
- → How do I get an extra crispy coating?
Use panko breadcrumbs and pan-sear each roll before baking to achieve a crunchy, golden-brown finish.
- → What side dishes pair best?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the richness of the chicken and sauce.
- → How do you make the sauce smooth?
Whisk the flour thoroughly into the melted butter, add milk gradually, and stir constantly to avoid lumps.