Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a show-stopping recipe that combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of Cordon Bleu with the irresistible tang of BBQ sauce! This isn't just another chicken dish – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden, crispy chicken breast to reveal a molten center of melted Swiss cheese and savory ham, all topped with a generous glaze of smoky BBQ sauce. Prepare to become the culinary hero of your kitchen with this incredible recipe that takes comfort food to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 slices ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by carefully slicing horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book.
- Season the inside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast.
- Carefully fold the chicken breast closed, securing the ham and cheese inside. Use toothpicks to seal the edges if needed.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat completely with breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil to help achieve a golden crispy exterior.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush each chicken breast generously with BBQ sauce.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot, with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Butterfly technique matters: Take your time when creating the pocket in the chicken breast. A clean, even cut ensures even cooking and perfect cheese distribution.
- Prevent cheese leakage: Make sure to seal the chicken breasts well with toothpicks to keep the cheese and ham inside during cooking.
- Crispy coating secret: For an extra crispy exterior, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, and don't skip the light olive oil spray before baking.
- Temperature is key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Sauce application timing: Brush the BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent burning and create a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Resting is crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Customize your sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce varieties – from sweet and tangy to spicy and bold – to make the recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 150mg
