Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Breadcrumbs

01 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for Super Easy method)
02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for Quick Dredge method)
03 - Oil spray

→ Chicken

04 - 2 small chicken breasts (6-7oz / 180–210g each)
05 - Salt and pepper, to taste
06 - 4 slices Swiss cheese
07 - 4 to 6 slices ham (about 2.5oz / 75g)

→ Super Easy Method

08 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
09 - 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

→ Quick Dredge Method

10 - 1 egg
11 - 2 teaspoons plain flour

→ Dijon Cream Sauce (makes about 1 cup)

12 - 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
13 - 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
14 - 1 1/4 cups milk (preferably full-fat)
15 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
16 - 3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (350°F) fan-forced. Spread panko breadcrumbs on a tray, spray with oil, and bake for about 3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and place in a bowl.
02 - Slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Fold cheese slices and tuck them into the pocket, then add ham. Close and secure with two toothpicks. Season with salt and pepper.
03 - Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a bit of salt and pepper. Spread over the top and sides of the chicken. Sprinkle with toasted panko and press gently to adhere. Spray with oil.
04 - Whisk egg and flour together. Dip chicken into the mixture, then coat with toasted panko. Transfer to tray and spray lightly with oil.
05 - Place prepared chicken on a baking tray. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Remove toothpicks before serving.
06 - Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, stir for 1 minute. Pour in half the milk, whisk until smooth. Add remaining milk, mustard, and cheese. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

# Notes:

01 - You can prep the Quick Dredge method ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
02 - The cheese may ooze out during baking depending on the type used, but sealing tightly with toothpicks helps.
03 - Leftover breadcrumbs can be saved and used for topping or another recipe.