Kraft’s Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Weeknight Delight

I remember distinctly the first time I encountered chicken cordon bleu. It was at my grandmother’s house, and the aroma alone, a blend of savory ham, creamy soup, and golden stuffing, had me hooked before I even took a bite. The juicy chicken, the salty ham, the comforting stuffing—it was a symphony of flavors and textures that felt both sophisticated and deeply comforting. While traditionally, it’s a labor-intensive dish involving stuffing and rolling, this recipe cleverly streamlines the process, making it achievable even on the busiest weeknights.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Additional Bake Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 (6 ounce) package stuffing mix for chicken
• 6 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices thin-sliced smoked ham
• 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Equipment Needed

• 13×9-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.

2. Prepare the stuffing according to the package directions. Usually, this involves combining the stuffing mix with hot water and butter (or margarine) and letting it sit for a few minutes to soften. Follow the package directions precisely for the best results.

3. Arrange the chicken breasts in the 13×9-inch baking dish. Ensure they are spaced evenly and not overlapping for even cooking.

4. Drape each chicken breast with a slice of thin-sliced smoked ham. Try to cover as much of the chicken surface as possible with the ham to impart its smoky flavor.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine the reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the soup.

6. Spoon the cream of chicken soup mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure each one is generously coated. This sauce will keep the chicken moist and add to the overall flavor.

7. Top each chicken breast with the prepared stuffing. Distribute it evenly, pressing lightly so it adheres to the soup mixture. Don’t pack the stuffing too tightly, as this can prevent it from cooking through properly.

8. Bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, being careful not to touch any bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pinkness.

9. Top with cheese, such as shredded Swiss or Monterey Jack, if desired. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this final baking period to prevent the cheese from burning.

10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Pound the chicken breasts: For even cooking, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap to prevent splattering.
• Use a quality ham: The flavor of the ham makes a big difference. Opt for a good quality, thinly sliced smoked ham for the best results.
• Adjust the stuffing: If you prefer a crispier stuffing, bake the chicken uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Broil for extra browning: For an even more golden-brown topping, broil the dish for the last minute or two of cooking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Cordon Bleu hot, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans, a simple salad, or roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent overcooking. While freezing is possible, the texture of the stuffing and sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	367.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	154 g	42%
Total Fat	17.2 g	26%
Saturated Fat	7.9 g	39%
Cholesterol	138.5 mg	46%
Sodium	957.7 mg	39%
Total Carbohydrate	2.3 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0.4 g	1%
Protein	48.6 g	97%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure the cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free.
• Lower Sodium: Look for even lower sodium cream of chicken soup, or make your own homemade version to control the salt content.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese on top, such as Gruyere, provolone, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with thick slices of firm tofu or large portobello mushroom caps. Use a vegetarian “chicken” stuffing mix and vegetable broth for the stuffing preparation.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream of chicken soup mixture for a touch of heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

A: While you can, it will take longer to cook, and it might be harder to ensure even cooking. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for faster and more consistent results.

Q: Can I use fresh stuffing instead of boxed?

A: Absolutely! Just make sure your fresh stuffing is cooked through before adding it to the chicken. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the moisture content of your stuffing.

Q: What if my chicken is browning too quickly?

A: Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese (if using) to melt and brown slightly.

Q: Can I use a different type of soup?

A: Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used as alternatives, but they will alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the stuffing from drying out?

A: Ensure the chicken breasts are well coated with the cream of chicken soup mixture before adding the stuffing. This will help to keep the stuffing moist during baking.

Final Thoughts

This streamlined Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe delivers all the classic flavors you love in a fraction of the time. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and substitutions to customize it to your liking. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a truly delightful culinary experience. And if you happen to put your own spin on the recipe, be sure to share your creations – I’d love to hear about them!