Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe Perfect for Easy Dinners

There’s something magical about biting into tender chicken stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, creamy sauce. This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy enough for a special occasion but simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for every dinner dilemma.

I first discovered Chicken Cordon Bleu at a family gathering years ago, and it felt like pure indulgence. But traditional recipes can be time-consuming—so I set out to create a version that’s faster, easier, and still irresistibly delicious. This creamy twist skips the breading but adds a luscious sauce that takes it to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just pantry staples and fresh chicken.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish thanks to the gooey cheese and mild flavors.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Perfect for date nights or dinner parties without the stress.

What makes this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe stand out is the balance of flavors. The salty ham, creamy sauce, and tender chicken complement each other beautifully. Plus, skipping the breading means less mess and fewer steps, but you still get that classic indulgent feel.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a go-to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s comfort food made simple, and honestly, who doesn’t need more of that?

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pounded thin for easy rolling.
• Sliced Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works best—choose your favorite variety.
• Sliced Swiss Cheese: Classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu, but you can use Gruyère for extra flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted, for sautéing and making the creamy sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce—use low-sodium if you prefer.
• Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and the sauce.

Optional substitutions:

• Cheese: Swap Swiss for mozzarella or provolone for a milder flavor.
• Ham: Use turkey or prosciutto for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Meat Mallet: For pounding the chicken breasts thin. If you don’t have one, use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan.
• Large Skillet: For cooking both the chicken and the sauce.
• Tongs: Makes turning the chicken easier without tearing the filling.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Oven-Safe Dish: If you want to finish the dish in the oven (optional).

Pro tip: Make sure your skillet is large enough to fit all the chicken pieces without crowding them—this helps with even cooking.

Preparation Method

1. Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Add the Filling: Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll them up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls seam-side down and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste. Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly, until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Simmer: Return the chicken rolls to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the top, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the toothpicks and transfer the chicken to plates. Spoon the creamy sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Pounding the Chicken: Don’t skip this step—it ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier.
• Searing for Flavor: Browning the chicken adds a layer of flavor to the dish and helps keep it juicy.
• Making a Smooth Sauce: Whisk continuously when adding the liquids to prevent lumps.
• Toothpick Trick: Use colored toothpicks to easily spot and remove them before serving.
• Multitasking: While the chicken simmers, prepare a simple side like steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas:

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the flour in the sauce and use cream cheese for thickening.
• Seasonal Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the sauce for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Stir a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the sauce for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with zucchini slices and the ham with roasted red peppers.

I’ve tried swapping the ham for bacon once, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer. The smoky flavor adds another level of deliciousness!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Serving: Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Pair with a glass of white wine for a fancy touch!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken rolls (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth.

Fun fact: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you can expect nutritionally from this dish:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: High in protein thanks to the chicken and cheese.
• Healthy Fats: From the cheese and cream, great for energy.
• Low-Carb: A great option for a low-carb dinner when paired with keto-friendly sides.
• Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten (but substitutions are available).

This dish is comforting and filling while also being a good source of protein—perfect for keeping you satisfied.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s equal parts indulgent and easy, this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu is the answer. The creamy sauce, savory ham, and melted cheese come together in a way that feels elegant but is actually super simple to make. Plus, the recipe is endlessly adaptable, so you can make it your own.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear about any twists or substitutions you make—it’s always fun to see how others put their spin on it. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family; it’s one they’ll be requesting over and over again.

Happy cooking, and here’s to more stress-free, delicious dinners!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly since they’re thicker.

What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?

Provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyère are great substitutes that melt beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken rolls and store them in the fridge, then cook and make the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).