If you’re a fan of classic flavors with an irresistible twist, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner favorite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts wrapped around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a satisfyingly crispy breadcrumb coating. This delightful dish brings together the comforts of home cooking with a touch of elegant French-inspired flair that’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Once you try these roll ups, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed cordon bleu any other way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe plays a key role in creating a perfectly balanced dish. From the juicy chicken and flavorful ham to the crispy, cheesy crust, these simple components come together for an unforgettable experience.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness): Ensures even cooking and tender texture throughout.
- 4 slices deli ham: Adds a savory, slightly salty layer that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly inside, giving a creamy, nutty flavor.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick evenly to each roll.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as a glue to keep the crispy coating in place.
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Provides a golden, crunchy exterior packed with flavor.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an extra layer of cheesy richness to the crust.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic depth.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives color and just a hint of smoky warmth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for baking): Ensures the breadcrumb coating crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Toothpicks: Keeps each roll securely together while baking.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish. Pound the chicken breasts to about ¼-inch thickness to make rolling easier and to ensure even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper, setting the stage for balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Add Ham and Cheese
Lay one slice of deli ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast. The combination of salty ham and creamy Swiss cheese inside the roll creates the unmistakable signature taste of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe.
Step 3: Roll and Secure
Roll up each chicken breast tightly from the short end and secure it with toothpicks to hold everything together during baking. This step helps keep the delicious ham and cheese nestled inside the tender chicken as it cooks perfectly.
Step 4: Set Up Breading Station
Create three shallow dishes for your breading—flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a flavorful mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika in the third. This tri-step breading process is what makes the coating irresistibly crunchy and full of flavor.
Step 5: Bread the Roll Ups
Dredge each roll-up first in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. This ensures every roll is perfectly coated to develop a crisp, golden crust that seals in all the delicious juices.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the breaded roll-ups seam-side down in the baking dish and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remember to remove toothpicks before serving to avoid any surprise pokes!
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of Dijon cream sauce or a spoonful of tangy mustard sauce can also add a wonderful burst of flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll ups with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of the delicious juices. Steamed green beans or a crisp mixed salad can add vibrant color and a refreshing crunch that balances the savory richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the roll ups into bite-sized pinwheels for a stunning appetizer or party platter. Alternatively, serve the whole roll with a side of colorful roasted vegetables arranged artfully for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s bound to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors and keeps the breading from becoming soggy, though reheating carefully is key to maintaining its crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the roll ups either before or after baking. If freezing uncooked, wrap each roll individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To freeze after baking, let them cool completely and store similarly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and crisped up again. Avoid microwaving when possible as it can make the breading soft and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese with another type?
Absolutely! Provolone or mozzarella are great alternatives that melt well and complement the ham and chicken nicely. Choose what you love or have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe is a kid-friendly favorite. Its familiar flavors and crispy texture tend to please even picky eaters.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, and ensure the other ingredients are labeled gluten-free for a safe and tasty version.
What is the best way to keep the roll ups from falling apart?
Securing each roll tightly with toothpicks and wrapping them snugly before breading is key. Handling them gently during the breading process helps keep everything intact as well.
Can I add herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture?
Yes! Adding dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley can boost the flavor. Adjust the seasonings to your taste to customize the dish to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe that brings comfort and delight with every bite. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, and the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable. Give it a try soon—you’ll love sharing this delicious dish with family and friends as much as you’ll love eating it!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups feature tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, baked to golden perfection with a crispy seasoned breadcrumb coating. This classic American and French-inspired dish makes a hearty main course perfect for a family dinner, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures in a simple, oven-baked recipe.
Ingredients
Chicken Roll Ups
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness)
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Breading Station
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Baking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Toothpicks (to secure roll-ups)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken : Lay each pounded chicken breast flat on a clean surface and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Add Fillings: Place one slice of deli ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast evenly.
- Roll and Secure: Roll up each chicken breast tightly starting from the short end, ensuring the ham and cheese stay inside, then secure each roll with toothpicks.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Coat Chicken Roll Ups: Dredge each roll-up first in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the breadcrumb-coated chicken roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Fat and Bake: Drizzle the roll-ups with olive oil or melted butter to help crisp the coating, then bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Remove Toothpicks and Serve: Carefully remove the toothpicks from each roll-up before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place the chicken roll-ups on a wire rack set inside the baking pan to allow heat to circulate evenly.
- You can substitute provolone or mozzarella cheese for Swiss cheese as a variation.
- Serve the roll-ups with a Dijon cream sauce, or pair them with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
