Cordon Bleu Style Chicken Strips: A Childhood Favorite Reimagined

I can still remember the aroma wafting from the kitchen on those special weeknights. Mom’s take on chicken cordon bleu was always a treat, a comforting blend of savory ham, melted cheese, and tender chicken. While her version was the full-fledged, rolled-and-stuffed affair, these Cordon Bleu Style Chicken Strips bring all those beloved flavors into an easier, weeknight-friendly format that my own kids now adore. It’s a dish that bridges generations, evoking nostalgia while fitting perfectly into our busy modern lives. They’re the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: About 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs chicken tenders
• 6 slices deli ham, smoked, cut in half lengthwise
• 0.5 (13 2/3 ounce) package baby swiss Cheez-It crackers, crushed into coarse crumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• Pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Shallow dishes (2)
• Fork
• Instant read thermometer
• No-stick spray or no-stick foil

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring the oven is fully preheated will guarantee even cooking and optimal crispness for the breading.

2. Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet. You can either spray it generously with no-stick cooking spray or line it with no-stick aluminum foil. This will prevent the chicken strips from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze.

3. In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and water using a fork until well combined. This mixture will act as the binding agent for the cracker crumb coating.

4. In another shallow dish, place the crushed Cheez-It cracker crumbs. Stir in pepper to taste. The pepper adds a subtle kick that complements the other flavors. You can adjust the amount of pepper to your preference.

5. Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a half slice of smoked deli ham. If necessary, use a toothpick to secure the ham in place. The ham infuses the chicken with a smoky, savory flavor that’s characteristic of cordon bleu.

6. Now it’s time to coat the chicken. First, roll each ham-wrapped chicken strip in the cracker crumbs, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

7. Next, dip the cracker-coated chicken into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are moistened.

8. Finally, roll the chicken again in the cracker crumbs, pressing gently to ensure a thick and even coating. This double coating of cracker crumbs creates a delightfully crispy texture.

9. Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each strip.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-25 minutes, flipping the chicken strips halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken tenders, so keep an eye on them.

11. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should register 165°F (74°C).

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Crushing the Crackers: For the best texture, use a food processor or place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you achieve coarse crumbs. Avoid over-processing them into a fine powder, as you want some texture in the breading.
• Securing the Ham: If the ham tends to unravel, use a toothpick to secure it to the chicken. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving.
• Preventing Soggy Breading: Make sure the baking sheet isn’t overcrowded. Overcrowding traps steam, which can lead to soggy breading.
• Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cracker crumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker crumbs for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lovers Unite: If you want an extra cheesy flavor, add a layer of shredded Swiss cheese under the ham.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Cordon Bleu Style Chicken Strips are delicious served hot, straight from the oven. They pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a creamy Dijon sauce. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the breading may lose some of its crispness.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	198.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	30%
Total Fat	6.7 g	10%
Saturated Fat	1.9 g	9%
Cholesterol	119.9 mg	39%
Sodium	531.4 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	2.5 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	30 g	60%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chicken tenders and gluten-free crackers (such as gluten-free rice crackers) for the breading.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar would all be delicious alternatives to baby Swiss.
• Different Crackers: If you don’t have Cheez-Its, you can use other types of crackers, such as Ritz crackers or saltines. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Ham Substitute: Use turkey ham or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
• Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier result, try cooking these in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I prepare these chicken strips ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken strips up to a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: Can I freeze these chicken strips?
A: Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the assembled chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Q: How do I prevent the cracker crumbs from falling off during baking?
A: Ensure that you press the cracker crumbs firmly onto the chicken during the coating process. The double coating also helps to create a more secure breading.

Q: What if I don’t have smoked ham?
A: You can use regular deli ham, but the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. Consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the cracker crumb mixture to compensate.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips that are about the same size as chicken tenders.

Final Thoughts

These Cordon Bleu Style Chicken Strips are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. They offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will become a new family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. And be sure to share your feedback and experiences – I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Enjoy!