Golden, crispy, and filled with layers of smoky ham and melty Swiss cheese, this Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic comfort food made even easier with an oven-baked twist. Say goodbye to messy frying — this recipe keeps things lighter without sacrificing any of the indulgent flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or impressing guests without stress.
Wrapped tightly, breaded to perfection, and finished with buttery chicken broth, this dish is everything you love about traditional chicken cordon bleu — with none of the hassle. Add it to your list of easy dinner recipes, cheesy baked chicken ideas, and family-friendly meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
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Baked, not fried — no messy oil or splatter
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Cheesy and satisfying with a savory ham center
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Great for family dinners or special occasions
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Freezer-friendly — perfect for prepping ahead
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Restaurant-quality results at home
Ingredient Breakdown
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Chicken Breasts: Flattened to even thickness, they roll easily and cook evenly.
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Deli Ham: Adds a savory, smoky contrast to the creamy cheese.
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Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that classic cordon bleu taste.
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Flour: Helps the egg stick and creates the first layer of crispiness.
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Eggs: Bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken rolls.
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Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy, golden coating. Use panko for extra crunch.
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Salt, Pepper & Garlic Powder: Simple seasoning that enhances the overall flavor.
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Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the coating during baking.
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Chicken Broth: Keeps the chicken juicy and adds moisture during the final bake.
Pro Tips
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Pound chicken evenly to avoid overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
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Secure rolls tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold shape while baking.
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Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and golden color.
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Add more cheese if you want it super gooey — just don’t overstuff.
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Let the rolls rest before slicing to lock in juices.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Try mozzarella or provolone instead of Swiss for a different cheesy flavor.
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Use prosciutto or smoked turkey instead of deli ham for a gourmet twist.
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Add Dijon mustard to the inside layer for extra flavor.
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Swap chicken for turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
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Make it gluten-free with almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with buttery mashed potatoes or roasted garlic green beans.
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Pair with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette for a lighter option.
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Drizzle with a quick Dijon cream sauce or a simple white gravy.
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Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread on the side.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make Ahead: Assemble chicken rolls and refrigerate (uncooked) for up to 1 day.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or use an air fryer to re-crisp the coating.
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Freeze: Freeze uncooked rolls on a sheet pan, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 40–45 minutes, adding broth in the last 10 minutes.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a French-inspired dish that gained popularity in American households in the mid-20th century. The name translates to “blue ribbon,” indicating a dish of high quality. While the original versions are often pan-fried or deep-fried, this baked version captures the same classic flavor with a modern, lighter approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Do I have to use Swiss cheese?
Swiss is traditional, but any good melting cheese works — try gouda, mozzarella, or provolone.
Why is chicken broth added at the end?
It keeps the chicken moist during the final bake and adds flavor to the base.
Can I make it without toothpicks?
Toothpicks help hold the rolls together, but you can use kitchen twine or place the seam side down and pack tightly in the dish.
How do I know when it’s done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.