Cooking in the air fryer is a game-changer, especially when it comes to recipes that are usually deep-fried or oven-baked. I absolutely love how it brings out the crispy texture without the mess of traditional frying. One of my favorite dishes to make in the air fryer is Chicken Cordon Bleu. The crispy, golden coating, combined with melted cheese and savory ham, makes this dish a standout! It’s quick, easy, and so delicious, which is why I can’t get enough of it.
If you’re like me and love both comfort food and efficient cooking, this Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is a perfect fit. It’s a dish that’s often thought of as fancy, but it comes together effortlessly. Plus, the air fryer locks in all the flavors and keeps the chicken juicy. So, whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the base of this dish. You’ll want to use boneless, skinless breasts for easy assembly and even cooking. They serve as the perfect foundation for the stuffing.
Ham slices: Thinly sliced ham adds that rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and chicken. It also brings an additional layer of saltiness that complements the rest of the ingredients.
Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for Chicken Cordon Bleu. It melts beautifully, giving you that gooey, delicious texture that you’ll love in every bite. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to try Gruyère or mozzarella.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs give the chicken its crispy, golden coating. You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. Either way, they will create the perfect crunch on the outside.
Egg: The egg acts as the binder for the breadcrumbs. It helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, ensuring that the crispy crust stays intact while cooking.
Flour: A light dusting of flour on the chicken ensures that the egg and breadcrumbs stick better. It also contributes to the golden finish when cooked.
Salt and pepper: Simple but essential! Seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper enhances its natural flavor and brings out the best in the other ingredients.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This will help the chicken cook evenly.
Step 2: Assemble the chicken cordon bleu
Lay a slice of ham on each chicken breast. Place two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. Carefully fold the chicken around the ham and cheese to create a secure roll. You can secure the edges with toothpicks if needed.
Step 3: Dredge the chicken
In a shallow dish, place the flour. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another dish, beat the egg. In a third dish, pour the breadcrumbs. Take each chicken roll and first coat it lightly in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated for that crispy texture.
Step 4: Air fry the chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching each other. Air fry for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy!
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and prevents any hot cheese from spilling out when you cut into it. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- If you want to make the chicken extra crispy, you can lightly spray the breadcrumb-coated chicken with cooking spray before air frying. This will give it an extra golden crunch.
- For a fun twist, try adding a layer of Dijon mustard on top of the ham before adding the cheese. It will give the dish a slight tangy flavor.
- If you have a larger air fryer, feel free to double or triple the recipe. Just be sure to keep the chicken rolls spaced out so they cook evenly.
- Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
- For a healthier option, you can swap the breadcrumbs for crushed whole-wheat crackers or use a gluten-free alternative.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can use Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar if you prefer a different flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls the night before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the air frying instructions.
Can I bake the chicken instead of using the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What sides go well with Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or rice.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chicken rolls. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.