If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packs a punch, this Spicy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Avocado is right up your alley. We've taken a classic dish and given it a spicy twist, making it perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein base that's easy to work with. Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild, nutty flavor. Ham offers a savory, salty contrast that complements the cheese. Avocado gives a creamy texture and healthy fats, balancing the spicy notes from the jalapeños. All-purpose flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs create a crispy coating that seals in the juices. Cayenne pepper and garlic powder add depth and a spicy kick, while salt and black pepper season the dish. Finally, olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
This spicy chicken cordon bleu pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top before serving can also enhance the flavors beautifully. Consider a side of creamy mashed potatoes or couscous to round out the meal.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F to get it nice and ready. While that's heating up, go ahead and pound your chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and are easy to roll.
Next, season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. This is where the flavor magic begins, so don’t be shy with those spices!
Now, slice your avocado and jalapeños into thin pieces. Layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a slice of ham, and some avocado and jalapeño slices onto each chicken breast. This combination will make your taste buds sing.
Carefully roll up each chicken breast and secure them with toothpicks. This step may require a bit of patience, but it’s worth it to keep everything tucked in nicely.
Set up your dredging station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken roll first in flour, then eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. This triple coating is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook each chicken roll for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they're beautifully golden brown.
After browning, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop them in the oven for 20 minutes. This ensures they’re cooked through and juicy.
Once done, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Slice and serve to enjoy!