Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is like a cozy hug from your oven. Imagine tender chicken wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a culinary wizard, ready to impress friends and family alike. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Hot Honey Chicken recipe.
This dish is the kind of comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a festive gathering, Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is sure to steal the show with its delightful flavors and inviting presentation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Preparing this Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is surprisingly easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- The flavor profile combines savory ham and rich cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.
- Its visual appeal comes from the golden-brown chicken, adding elegance to any dinner table.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or sliced up for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, ensuring they’re of even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Deli Ham: Choose high-quality deli ham that adds flavor without being overly salty; thinly sliced works best.
- Swiss Cheese: Opt for sliced Swiss cheese for that classic melty goodness; Gruyère can also be a delightful substitute.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an extra crunch; you can season them with garlic powder or Italian herbs for added flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps crisp up the breadcrumbs while keeping the chicken moist.
For the Sauce:
- Mustard Sauce: Combine Dijon mustard with some cream; it’s tangy and elevates the whole dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray – nobody wants their masterpiece stuck to the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and slice it horizontally but not all the way through; you’re creating a pocket for stuffing. Season both sides with salt and pepper because bland chicken is just sad.
Step 3: Add the Goodies
Stuff each chicken pocket with slices of ham and Swiss cheese. Be generous! You want each bite bursting with flavor. Close them up like little treasures ready for baking.
Step 4: Coat in Panko
In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re coated evenly. Roll each stuffed chicken breast in this crunchy mixture until fully covered – this is where magic happens!
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Pour any remaining olive oil over them to ensure they crisp up nicely while baking.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and looks gloriously golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with mustard sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve hot and watch as jaws drop at your kitchen prowess!
Enjoy every moment as you dig into this delicious Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake; it’s bound to become a new favorite at your dinner table!
You Must Know
- This amazing stuffed chicken cordon bleu bake offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for baking but versatile enough for grilling or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then prepare your creamy sauce while the chicken bakes. Cook the pasta separately, so everything comes together perfectly without turning into a mushy mess. Timing is everything!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or even veggies for a meatless option! Try different cheeses like Gouda or Swiss, and add herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile. Your taste buds will thank you!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness melts back into place without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
I remember the first time I made this stuffed chicken cordon bleu bake for a family gathering; my aunt’s eyes widened like saucers as she took her first bite! It was an absolute hit, and I think I might have earned my spot as the family chef that day.
FAQs :
What is Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is a delicious, oven-baked dish that combines chicken breasts with ham and cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating. It’s an easier alternative to traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, as it eliminates the need for deep frying. perfect side for stuffed chicken This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions and can be served with various side dishes like steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.
How long does it take to prepare Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
Preparing Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on your cooking skills. The baking process usually requires about 25-30 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C). delicious chicken soup option Overall, you can expect to have this comforting dish ready in under an hour, making it a quick option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Can I customize the filling of Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
Yes! One of the great things about Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is its versatility. You can customize the filling by adding different types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella. Additionally, feel free to include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure that any added ingredients are cooked beforehand to maintain even cooking.
What should I serve with Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake?
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Popular options include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. refreshing salad accompaniment You can also serve it with rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some gravy or a creamy sauce over the top to enhance the flavors even further!
Conclusion for Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake :
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its delightful combination of chicken, ham, and cheese, it’s both satisfying and versatile. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, making it a must-try in your kitchen! For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake is a comforting and delicious oven-baked dish that features tender chicken breasts filled with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy panko crust. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, promising to impress your family and friends with its delightful flavors and appealing presentation. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of textures, making it an instant favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
- 6 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket; season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the pockets generously with layers of ham and Swiss cheese.
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated. Roll each stuffed chicken breast in the panko mixture.
- Place the coated chicken in the baking dish and drizzle any remaining olive oil over them.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
- While baking, whisk together Dijon mustard and heavy cream to create a sauce.
- Serve hot, drizzled with the mustard sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - Substitute turkey for ham or add vegetables like spinach for added flavor. - Try different cheeses such as Gouda or mozzarella for variety.
