This Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish that promises all the flavors you love without the extra carbs. Tender chicken breasts are wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This dish is not only satisfying but also a great option for anyone looking to maintain a low carb lifestyle while enjoying a rich and flavorful meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this recipe for its incredible flavor, simplicity, and adherence to a low carb diet. The combination of juicy chicken, salty ham, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering taste sensation that rivals traditional versions, minus the carbs. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it fits beautifully into a keto or low carb meal plan, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Tips and Tricks
To make your cooking experience seamless, here are some handy tips:
- Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and makes them easier to roll.
- Cheese Choices: Opt for a good melting cheese like Swiss or provolone for the best flavor and texture.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the chicken seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
- Use Toothpicks: If your chicken rolls are having trouble staying together, secure them with toothpicks before baking.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love meal prepping, this dish can be made in advance! You can prepare the chicken rolls, wrap them snugly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish!
- Different Meats: Swap ham for turkey or prosciutto for a unique twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Cooking Methods: Try air frying for a crispy exterior or grilling for a smoky flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken cordon bleu with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a touch of elegance, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Present the dish on a white plate to highlight the golden brown color of the chicken.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement this dish, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon is refreshing. As for sides, a creamy cauliflower mash or sautéed green beans make excellent choices.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken cordon bleu for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Equipment Needed
You will need a meat mallet, baking dish, and parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you prefer a crispy texture, an air fryer can be a great alternative to the oven.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute nutritional yeast for cheese and use a dairy-free alternative for the ham. For a nut-free option, ensure any added ingredients, such as breadcrumbs, are free of nuts. Vegans can substitute the chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices, and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Seasonal Adaptations
During summer, you can enhance the recipe with fresh herbs like basil or dill. In fall, consider adding spices like sage or thyme to warm up the flavors.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can add extra moisture and flavor.
What can I substitute for ham? Turkey or roast beef can work well as substitutes.
How long should I bake the chicken? Bake for about 25-30 minutes, but check the internal temperature for accuracy.
Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu
This Low Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish that promises all the flavors you love without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 cup almond flour (or low carb breadcrumbs)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Lay 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese on each chicken breast.
- Roll the chicken tightly, starting from the thinner end, and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Dip each rolled chicken in beaten eggs, then coat with almond flour.
- Place the chicken rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Lightly spray the tops with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 839Total Fat: 48gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 28gCholesterol: 334mgSodium: 1628mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 4gSugar: 3gProtein: 92g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this low carb chicken cordon bleu is a fulfilling and delicious experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress while keeping your carb intake in check. Enjoy the process of creating this classic dish with a healthy twist, and share it with loved ones for a meal that’s both nutritious and delectable!
