Chicken cordon bleu — chicken fillets stuffed with ham and cheese

Chicken cordon bleu is one of the most beloved classics of French cuisine: thinly pounded chicken fillets wrapped around slices of ham and cheese that melts during frying, coated in crispy breadcrumbs. The result is a roll that is golden on the outside and creamy on the inside — perfect for a family lunch or dinner.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 4 chicken fillets (chicken breasts)
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of Emmental or Gruyère cheese
• 2 eggs
• 100 g flour
• 150 g breadcrumbs
• salt and black pepper, to taste
• oil for frying

Preparation

1. Pound the chicken fillets between two sheets of plastic wrap until evenly thin (about 1 cm).
2. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each fillet, leaving the edges free.
4. Roll up tightly, tucking in the ends; secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Dredge the rolls first in flour, then in beaten eggs and finally in breadcrumbs — press lightly so the coating adheres well.
6. Heat the oil in a pan (around 170°C) and fry the rolls 6–8 minutes per side, until golden.
7. Let rest 5 minutes, remove the toothpicks and cut in half before serving.

Prep time: ~25 minutes | Cook time: ~20 minutes | Servings: 4