If you’re craving classic comfort food but want to keep it on the healthier side, this Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is the perfect choice. Combining succulent chicken breasts with flavorful ham and gooey cheese, this version lightens things up by baking instead of frying and using healthier ingredients, ensuring you don’t miss out on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts: 4, boneless and skinless
Ham: 4 slices, lean
Swiss Cheese: 4 slices
Whole Grain Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
Egg Whites: 2, whipped
Mustard: 2 tablespoons, Dijon
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Equipments
– Oven
– Baking dish
– Meat mallet
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls
How to Make Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu – Step By Step
Step 1:
Set the Oven.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes perfectly golden when baked. Consider lining your baking dish with parchment paper to make cleaning a breeze and prevent sticking.
Step 2:
Prepare and Pound the Chicken.
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This helps the chicken cook uniformly and makes it easier to roll with the filling.
Step 3:
Layer the Ingredients.
On each flattened chicken breast, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard. Top with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. For added flavor, sprinkle a touch of garlic powder if desired.
Step 4:
Roll the Chicken.
Carefully roll up each chicken breast, tucking the edges in as you go to secure the filling. Use toothpicks to hold the rolls in place if necessary.
Step 5:
Coat in Breadcrumbs.
Dip each chicken roll into the whipped egg whites, then roll them into a bowl of whole grain breadcrumbs mixed with a dash of salt and pepper. Make sure each roll is fully coated for a crispy texture.
Step 6:
Arrange and Bake.
Place the coated chicken rolls carefully in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to enhance the golden color. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu
To serve, remove toothpicks and slice each chicken roll into medallions for elegant presentation. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete this wholesome meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, ensure you pound your chicken evenly to avoid any thick spots that won’t cook through. Experiment with different cheese types like Gruyère for a twist on the classic flavor. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix can also elevate your dish.
Boost Your Protein: Chicken Cordon Bleu Like a Bodybuilding Pro!
Looking to amp up your protein intake? Opt for a high-protein cheese option, such as low-fat mozzarella, and add a layer of cooked spinach into your chicken rolls. This not only increases the protein content but also adds a delightful pop of color and flavor.
Incorporating Greek yogurt into your mustard spread can also increase the protein factor without compromising taste. It adds a creamy texture and complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Low-Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu for Keto Enthusiasts
For a version of Chicken Cordon Bleu that fits a low-carb diet, swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour. This provides the necessary crunch with minimal carbs. Ensure your ham slices are sugar-free to keep it keto-friendly.
You can also experiment by using thinly sliced zucchini instead of ham if you want another dimension of flavor while maintaining the low-carb integrity of the meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to retain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese to keep it lactose-free while enjoying the same texture and flavor.
How do I ensure the cheese doesn’t leak out?
Roll the chicken tightly and secure it with toothpicks to prevent any cheese from escaping during cooking.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, the chicken rolls can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I add more flavor to the breadcrumbs?
Spice up your breadcrumb mixture with herbs such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a touch of cayenne for an extra kick.
A Flavorful Finale: Enjoying Your Culinary Creation
This Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is easy to follow yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Share your success by posting a picture and tagging us, or leave a comment to let us know how it turned out for you!
Healthy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- ham slices
- Swiss cheese slices
- whole grain breadcrumbs
- egg whites
- Dijon mustard
- olive oil
- seasonings
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Spread Dijon mustard on each chicken breast, add a slice of ham and cheese on top.
- Roll up the chicken, securing the rolls with toothpicks if necessary.
- Dip rolls in whipped egg whites, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place into a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes.