Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu

Introduction

Welcome to our slow cooker chicken cordon bleu recipe! If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this classic French-inspired dish using a slow cooker. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the flavors of chicken cordon bleu with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this slow cooker chicken cordon bleu recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal ready to serve in no time. Secondly, the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and juicy chicken breast wrapped in ham and melted cheese. Lastly, this recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diet, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of chicken cordon bleu.

Ingredients

To make slow cooker chicken cordon bleu, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices of ham
4 slices of Swiss cheese
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of melted butter
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 cup of chicken broth

Note: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to substitute ingredients as needed. For example, you can use turkey ham instead of regular ham, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re lactose intolerant.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your slow cooker chicken cordon bleu:

Start by pounding the chicken breasts until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly in the slow cooker.
Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
Roll up the chicken breast tightly, making sure the ham and cheese are securely wrapped inside.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the rolled chicken breasts with melted butter, then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture until they are coated evenly.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts on all sides until they are golden brown.
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, covering the chicken breasts.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Pro Tip: For an extra crispy crust, you can transfer the chicken breasts to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your slow cooker chicken cordon bleu turns out perfect every time:

Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts evenly. This will prevent them from drying out during cooking.
Make sure to tightly roll up the chicken breasts to keep the filling secure.
For added flavor, you can spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken breasts before adding the ham and cheese.
If you prefer a crispy breadcrumb crust, you can lightly toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet before coating the chicken.
Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. Make sure there is enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking.
If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic slow cooker chicken cordon bleu recipe is delicious on its own, you can also get creative and customize it to suit your taste. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

Instead of ham, you can use prosciutto or bacon for a different flavor profile.
For a healthier version, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or almond flour.
If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, you can use Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese instead.
Add some chopped herbs like fresh parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can mix some heavy cream or sour cream with the chicken broth before adding it to the slow cooker.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker chicken cordon bleu pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
For a lighter option, you can serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted asparagus.
Pair this dish with a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine.
For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber slices.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker chicken cordon bleu:

Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken cordon bleu the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer it to the slow cooker and follow the instructions.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken cordon bleu. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker chicken cordon bleu is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this classic French-inspired recipe without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let your taste buds experience the magic of slow cooker chicken cordon bleu!