Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted cheese in this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. With its rich, velvety sauce and crispy topping, this dish brings all the elegance of the classic French-inspired dish with a much simpler preparation.

I discovered this variation when looking for a way to recreate my favorite childhood restaurant meal without the fuss of rolling and breading chicken. This one-pan version is now a staple for cozy dinners, special occasions, and even weeknight indulgences. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Get ready to experience a meal that’s decadent yet approachable. This version of Chicken Cordon Bleu skips the hassle of traditional preparation but delivers all the flavor and comfort you crave.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Instead of individually prepping each chicken breast, this dish layers all the key components in one baking dish, saving you time and effort while still tasting amazing.

The creamy sauce elevates the entire dish. A blend of heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese adds richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

It’s perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners. Whether you’re impressing guests or making something special for your family, this recipe fits the bill without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Lastly, it’s customizable. From adding different cheeses to swapping proteins, you can tweak this dish to suit your preferences or use up ingredients you already have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant.

Chicken breasts are the foundation of this recipe. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option if preferred.

Ham slices add a savory, smoky layer to the dish. Deli ham works wonderfully here, but if you have leftover baked ham, it will elevate the flavors even more.

Swiss cheese is classic for Cordon Bleu, offering a mild yet nutty flavor. Gruyère or even mozzarella can be substituted for a twist.

Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, lending it a luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, though the sauce will be thinner.

Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce. It balances the richness perfectly and highlights the smoky ham and cheese.

No special equipment is required for this recipe—just a baking dish and a saucepan for the sauce.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu

This simplified version of Chicken Cordon Bleu comes together effortlessly, with just a few easy steps to ensure the perfect bite every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper.

Top each chicken breast with a slice of ham, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese. Layering these ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Prepare the creamy sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, followed by Dijon mustard, and let the sauce simmer until thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the top is golden and bubbly.

Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.

To refrigerate, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

For freezing, portion out individual servings and store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture of the breadcrumbs may soften slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is to suit your tastes and needs.

For a lighter version, use low-fat Swiss cheese and half-and-half in place of heavy cream. You can also skip the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Want to add more flavor? Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme over the top before baking. A pinch of smoked paprika in the sauce can also enhance the smoky notes of the ham.

If you’re not a fan of ham, thinly sliced turkey or prosciutto makes a wonderful substitute.

Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for hearty slices of cauliflower or portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth in the sauce.

Feeling adventurous? Try different cheeses like Havarti or sharp cheddar for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!

Experiment, have fun, and enjoy this creamy, indulgent take on a classic favorite!

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