Chicken Cordon Bleu with Herb Butter is a delightful take on a classic dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of fresh herbs. This recipe gives a modern twist to the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu by incorporating a luscious herb butter. It's a perfect choice if you're looking to impress with minimal fuss.
Chicken breasts are the star of the dish, providing a lean protein base that's easy to work with. Swiss cheese and prosciutto are classic pairings in Chicken Cordon Bleu, offering a melty, savory center. The herb butter made with unsalted butter, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper brings a fresh and flavorful aroma. Flour, eggs, and a panko breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mix create layers of coating for a crispy exterior. Finally, olive oil is used for browning, adding a light Mediterranean flavor.
Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the dish.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, let's tackle the herb butter. In a small bowl, mix together your softened butter with parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set this aside; it will soon work its magic inside your chicken.
Next, grab your chicken breasts. You want to cut a pocket into each one — think of it like a little pouch waiting to be filled with goodness. Into each pocket, slide a slice of Swiss cheese, a slice of prosciutto, and about a tablespoon of the herb butter you made earlier.
Now for the coating: Dredge each stuffed chicken in flour, making sure it's evenly covered. Dip it into the beaten eggs, and then roll it in a mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese until it's fully coated.
Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. You want to brown them for about 3 minutes on each side until they're golden and crispy. The aroma at this stage is fantastic!
Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re aiming for cooked-through chicken, so check for a nice, even doneness.
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and the flavors to meld perfectly.