Crispy Cordon Bleu

Here’s a recipe for Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu—a flavorful classic that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 slices ham (thinly sliced)

4 slices Swiss cheese

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs (beaten)

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crispiness)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce (optional):

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound gently with a meat mallet until about ¼-inch thick.

2. Assemble:

Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese over each chicken breast. Roll up tightly, securing with toothpicks if needed.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.

Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip into the eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Fry and Bake:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken roll until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).

Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Make the Sauce (Optional):

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

Add Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.

6. Serve:

Remove toothpicks from the chicken and drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce on top. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

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Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu—a perfect combination of crunch and savory flavors!