Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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🐔🧀 Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

✅ Prep Time: 15–20 minutes

✅ Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

✅ Servings: 4

✅ Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

✅ Texture: Crispy outside, juicy chicken, melty cheese center

🧂 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to 1/2″ thick)

  • 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or mozzarella/provolone)

  • 4 slices of deli ham

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • Toothpicks (or kitchen twine)

For Breading:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko for extra crunch)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, adds crispiness & flavor)

  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment.

  2. Pound evenly to 1/2 inch thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

✅ Step 2: Fill & Roll

  1. Lay a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each piece of chicken.

  2. Roll tightly from one end to the other. Tuck in the sides if possible.

  3. Secure with toothpicks to hold the shape (remove after cooking).

✅ Step 3: Bread the Rolls

  1. Season flour with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.

  2. Dredge each chicken roll in flour → then dip into beaten eggs → then coat with breadcrumbs (mixed with Parmesan if using).

  3. Press breadcrumbs on firmly for good coverage.

✅ Step 4: Air Fry

  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

  2. Lightly spray chicken rolls with oil spray.

  3. Place in air fryer basket (not touching).

  4. Air fry for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

  5. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Drizzle with Dijon mustard sauce or creamy garlic sauce.

  • Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

❓ Q&A – Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Q1: Can I use toothpicks in the air fryer?
A: Yes, they’re safe. Just make sure they are wood, not plastic, and stay inserted during cooking.

Q2: What cheese works best?
A: Swiss is classic, but provolone, mozzarella, or Havarti melt beautifully too.

Q3: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
A: Tightly roll and seal the chicken, secure with toothpicks, and press the ends closed. Using thicker slices of cheese also helps.

Q4: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and bread the chicken rolls, then refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before air frying.

Q5: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze uncooked, breaded rolls on a tray until solid, then store in a zip bag. Air fry from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Q6: Can I make this keto/low-carb?
A: Yes! Use almond flour instead of regular flour and crushed pork rinds or parmesan instead of breadcrumbs.

🔁 Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add pepper jack cheese and a smear of Dijon inside.

  • Italian Twist: Use prosciutto and provolone, season breading with Italian herbs.

  • Saucy Version: Top with a creamy Dijon or garlic white sauce after cooking.

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