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Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe Easy Homemade Melty Swiss Cheese

crispy chicken cordon bleu - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy chicken cordon bleu with melty Swiss cheese and savory ham, perfect for cozy dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin between plastic wrap)
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese (Emmental or Jarlsberg recommended)
  • 4 thin slices deli ham (smoked or honey ham optional)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten, room temperature)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • About 8 toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound until about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Spread about 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard on each breast if using.
  3. Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
  4. Roll each chicken breast tightly from the narrow end, tucking in the sides, and secure with 2 toothpicks per roll.
  5. Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and press into panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more for extra crunch.
  7. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 350°F / 175°C).
  8. Fry the chicken rolls seam side down for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, turning gently with tongs.
  9. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet to drain excess oil and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Pound chicken evenly for quick cooking and easier rolling. Secure rolls tightly with toothpicks to prevent cheese leakage. Double breading adds extra crunch. Maintain medium heat to avoid burning crust. Let rest after frying to keep cheese inside. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken cordon bleu, crispy chicken, Swiss cheese, ham, breaded chicken, easy dinner, comfort food