There’s a certain charm that fills the kitchen when I prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu. The moment I hear the sizzle of chicken rolling in a crunch of panko breadcrumbs, I feel a wave of excitement for what’s to come. This dish, with its tantalizing blend of gooey Swiss cheese and savory ham, transports me to a cozy Parisian bistro, all from the comfort of my own home. The creamy Dijon sauce further enhances the experience, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality perfection in just 45 minutes.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests for a casual dinner or indulge your family with a gourmet meal, this Chicken Cordon Bleu checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, yet offers that wow factor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that brings a little touch of elegance to your everyday dining!
Why is Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu a must-try?
Simplicity and Elegance: Although it sounds fancy, making Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu is a breeze with just a few steps.
Crispy Perfection: The panko breadcrumbs deliver a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the juicy chicken.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite unveils a creamy blend of rich Swiss cheese and savory ham that’s simply irresistible.
Versatile Options: You can easily substitute ingredients to match your taste, whether opting for turkey or different cheeses.
Quick and Impressive: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe showcases restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your home, making it perfect for both casual dinners or special occasions.
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu Ingredients
• Prepare to create a gourmet meal you’ll love!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – 2 large boneless, skinless pieces; pound them to an even thickness for perfect cooking.
For the Filling
- Swiss Cheese – 4 slices; offers a creamy melt and nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Ham – 4-6 slices; choose good-quality ham for maximum flavor depth.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – 1 cup; these provide a deliciously crispy exterior. A great alternative to traditional breadcrumbs for texture.
- Egg (or Mayo) – 1 egg + 2 tsp flour OR 3 tbsp mayo + 1.5 tbsp Dijon; binds the coating beautifully, with mayo adding richness.
For the Sauce
- Butter – 1.5 tbsp; use unsalted for better seasoning control in your creamy sauce.
- Flour – 1.5 tbsp; thickens the sauce perfectly; consider gluten-free flour if needed.
- Milk – 1¼ cups; any milk or plant-based alternative creates a rich creaminess in the sauce.
- Dijon Mustard – 2 tbsp; adds a tangy punch to your sauce, adjust to taste as you prefer.
- Grated Parmesan – 3 tbsp; freshly grated gives your sauce a flavorful boost, ensuring a gourmet experience.
This combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients will culminate in Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu that you’ll crave time and again!
How to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu
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Prepare Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking. Layer the ham and Swiss cheese on each breast, then roll them up tightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
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Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken roll in the egg mixture or mayo, allowing excess to drip off. Then, roll them in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated for maximum crunch.
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Bake: Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell delightful!
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Make Sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Mix in Dijon mustard and grated Parmesan, simmer until creamy and thickened.
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Serve: Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven. Slice each roll and drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce. Enjoy the flavorside by side!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu
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Pound Evenly: To achieve optimal cooking, ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness. This prevents dried-out edges while the center remains undercooked.
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Breadcrumb Coating: For an extra crispy finish, generously coat the chicken with panko breadcrumbs, tiny gaps can hide moisture and reduce crunch.
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Cooking Methods: If using an air fryer, preheat and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking and crispiness.
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Sauce Consistency: When making the creamy Dijon sauce, whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps and get that smooth, velvety texture.
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Final Touches: Don’t skip the garnish! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and a delightful freshness that enhances your Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu Variations
There’s so much joy in customizing this dish to your taste—let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Cheese Swap: Try using Gruyère or aged cheddar for a more intense, creamy flavor.
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Meat Alternatives: For a leaner option, substitute turkey for ham; it adds a different yet delicious twist.
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Herb-Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic layer of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb coating for a fiery surprise.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices for a hearty vegetarian alternative layered with cheese.
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Extra Crunch: Toss some finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the panko for an unexpected crunchy texture.
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Different Sauces: Experiment with a creamy garlic or a tangy green sauce instead of Dijon to switch up the flavor profile.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing flavor.
Each of these variations can make your Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu a unique experience every time!
Make Ahead Options
These Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken rolls (layer ham and cheese, then roll and secure) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. The panko coating can also be done ahead of time—just keep it separate to maintain its crispiness. When you’re all set to bake, preheat your oven and simply dip the rolled chicken in mayo or egg, coat with panko, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Pairing your meal with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience, creating a feast for the senses.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they offer a smooth contrast to the crispy chicken while soaking up the rich flavors.
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Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh pop of color and a light crunch, balancing the richness of the dish perfectly.
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Classic Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, with croutons adding delightful texture.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tangy vinegar notes brighten your plate, cutting through the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Roasted Broccolini: This slightly charred veggie brings a touch of sophistication along with a nutty flavor that complements the chicken.
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Savory Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery with a hint of garlic, this bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy Dijon sauce.
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Chardonnay or White Sangria: A chilled glass of Chardonnay provides a lovely acidity, while sangria offers fruity notes that enhance the meal’s flavors.
Storage Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu
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Room Temperature: Allow the Chicken Cordon Bleu to cool completely before storing. It should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture, it’s best to avoid stacking the pieces directly on top of each other.
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Freezer: If you need to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.
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Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. This helps keep the coating crispy while ensuring the creamy filling remains delicious when enjoying your Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for pieces that are pale pink in color without any dark spots or off-odors. Fresh chicken should feel firm and springy but not slimy. Always check the sell-by date to ensure you’re getting the freshest product.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu?
After ensuring the Chicken Cordon Bleu has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crunchy texture, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for best results!
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Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Very! To freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and retains flavor. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking again at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
What should I do if the breadcrumbs are not crispy?
If the breadcrumbs aren’t crispy, consider re-evaluating your coating method. Ensure that you coat the chicken thoroughly with panko, pressing it on nicely. Also, try mildly spraying the breaded chicken with cooking spray before baking, which helps achieve that golden crunch. If using an air fryer, flipping halfway through cooking is essential!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free breadcrumb options can be used for a similar crunch. If anyone has dairy allergies, swap the Swiss cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, and use almond or oat milk in the sauce. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve the right flavor balance!
Can pets eat Chicken Cordon Bleu?
While it’s always a joy to share food with our furry friends, it’s important to note that Chicken Cordon Bleu contains ingredients that are not ideal for dogs or cats, particularly cheese and too much seasoning. If you’d like to treat your pet, you can offer plain, cooked chicken without any breading or sauce!
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Cordon Bleu You'll Crave Every Time!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking. Layer the ham and Swiss cheese on each breast, then roll them up tightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Dip each chicken roll in the egg mixture or mayo, allowing excess to drip off. Then, roll them in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated for maximum crunch.
- Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
- While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Mix in Dijon mustard and grated Parmesan, simmer until creamy and thickened.
- Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven. Slice each roll and drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce. Enjoy!
