Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu
Description
This Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, found at Copykat.com, and it has swiftly become a favorite for weeknight dinners. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to prepare something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair this savory and satisfying dish with mashed potatoes or baked potatoes, a vegetable, and a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups of cooked ham, sliced
- 6 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 3/4 cups of milk
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup (approximately 10.5 ounces)
Optional:
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking and to make cleaning up easier.
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Prepare the Soup Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Pour the soup mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
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Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the soup mixture in the baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Top each chicken breast with a slice of cooked ham.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham on each chicken breast.
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Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- The chicken should be fork-tender and cooked through, with the cheese melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve each chicken breast with some of the soup mixture from the bottom of the dish spooned over the top.
- Complement the meal with mashed or baked potatoes, a vegetable of your choice, and a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 372.3 kcal
- Fat: 19.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 8.7 g
- Cholesterol: 111.2 mg
- Sodium: 934.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 1.8 g
- Protein: 36.5 g
Review Highlights
With an aggregated rating of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews, this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is praised for its simplicity and rich flavors. Reviewers appreciate the ease of preparation and the delicious outcome, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To make this dish even more enjoyable and tailored to your taste, consider the following tips and variations:
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Cheese Options:
- While Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, Mozzarella, or even a sharp Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
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Ham Alternatives:
- For a twist, try using prosciutto or Canadian bacon instead of cooked ham. These variations can add a unique taste and texture to the dish.
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Sauce Enhancements:
- Enhance the sauce by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of white wine to the soup mixture. This will give the dish a slightly tangy and sophisticated flavor.
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Breadcrumb Topping:
- For added texture, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. This will create a crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken and melted cheese.
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Healthier Version:
- If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, use low-fat cheese and skim milk in the recipe. Additionally, consider using reduced-sodium condensed soup to lower the sodium content.
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Gluten-Free Adaptation:
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the condensed cream of chicken soup you use is certified gluten-free. Some brands offer gluten-free versions of this popular ingredient.
Serving Suggestions
To complete the meal, serve Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu with side dishes that complement its rich flavors:
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Mashed Potatoes:
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and sauce. For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or chives to your mashed potatoes.
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Roasted Vegetables:
- A medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus adds color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch to your plate.
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Fresh Salad:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken dish. Include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for a vibrant and healthy side.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later:
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Storage:
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through, checking to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a special occasion. By following this recipe and incorporating some of the suggested variations and serving ideas, you can create a memorable meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, and don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a favorite in your household too!
