Chicken Cordon Bleu (Baked or Fried)

Chicken Cordon Bleu (Baked or Fried)

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 8 thin slices of ham

• 8 thin slices of Swiss cheese

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs

• ½ cup vegetable oil (if frying)

Optional Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 cup milk

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Directions:

1. Prep the Oven
   If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Flatten the Chicken
   Place the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about ½ inch thickness.

3. Season
   Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of each chicken breast.

4. Add Filling
   Place 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese on each breast. Roll them up tightly and secure with toothpicks.

5. Coat the Chicken
   Roll each chicken piece in flour, then dip in the beaten egg mixed with water. Finish by coating with breadcrumbs.

6. Cooking Options:

   • To Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken rolls for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

   • To Bake: Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

7. Make the Sauce (Optional):
   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cornstarch to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Stir in Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar. Cook until the sauce thickens.

8. Serve
   Remove toothpicks, slice the chicken if desired, and serve hot with the creamy Dijon sauce.