1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each chicken breast. Roll up each breast tightly and secure with toothpicks.
5. Set up a breading station: place flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
6. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in eggs, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
7. Place the breaded chicken rolls on a baking sheet and brush or drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove toothpicks before serving.
**Description:**
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu features succulent chicken breasts stuffed with ham and melted cheese, coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. The result is a dish with layers of savory flavor and satisfying texture, making it a comforting and impressive meal.
**Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings per recipe):**
– Calories: ~400
– Total Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 135mg
– Sodium: 900mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 24g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 1g
– Protein: 30g
**Conclusion:**
Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese in a satisfying, crispy package. Its elegant presentation and rich taste make it a great choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
**Recommendation:**
Pair Chicken Cordon Bleu with a fresh vegetable side or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. Enjoy it with a simple sauce or garnish to enhance the flavors and add a personal touch.
**Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
To make Chicken Cordon Bleu a bit healthier, consider using leaner cuts of chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat breadcrumbs. Baking rather than frying helps reduce the amount of added fat, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish with a healthier twist.
