Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those timeless comfort foods that can make any meal feel like a special occasion. Its crispy golden crust, tender chicken, and creamy, melty cheese and ham filling have made it a crowd favorite for generations. But what if you could enjoy this elegant dish without all the time-consuming prep? That’s where Campbell’s Soup comes in. By using a can of their creamy soup, you can streamline the process without sacrificing the rich flavors that make Chicken Cordon Bleu so irresistible.
This Campbell Soup Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s an easy, delicious, and hassle-free way to enjoy this classic French-inspired dish in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe will deliver flavor and impress your guests with minimal effort. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the details!
Campbell Soup Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
This recipe reimagines the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu by incorporating Campbell’s Soup to add a depth of flavor and creaminess to the dish. The result is a juicy chicken breast stuffed with Swiss cheese and ham, all wrapped up in a crisp, golden breadcrumb crust. The addition of the creamy soup not only enhances the sauce but also keeps the chicken moist throughout the baking process. Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
To create this flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu with Campbell’s Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts (Boneless & Skinless): The star of the show! These provide the tender base for the entire dish.
- Ham (Thinly Sliced): A classic addition to Chicken Cordon Bleu. You can use deli-style ham, or go for a slightly thicker cut if you prefer more bite.
- Swiss Cheese (Sliced): This nutty, melt-in-your-mouth cheese adds richness to the dish.
- Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret weapon to make the sauce rich, creamy, and comforting.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): These create the crunchy, golden exterior that everyone loves.
- Butter (Melted): Helps bind the breadcrumbs and creates that beautiful golden crust when baked.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, and Pepper: For seasoning the chicken and soup.
- Parsley (Optional): Fresh parsley can be used for garnishing, adding a touch of color and freshness.
- Flour: A small amount to coat the chicken before breading it, ensuring the crust sticks perfectly.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to assemble and bake your Campbell Soup Chicken Cordon Bleu:
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Preheat The Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly while giving the breadcrumbs a nice crisp.
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Prep The Chicken
Use a sharp knife to make a pocket in the side of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through-you’re looking for a space to stuff the cheese and ham inside.
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Stuff The Chicken
Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over to secure the filling. You can use toothpicks to help seal them, but be sure to remove them before serving.
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Dredge The Chicken
Coat the stuffed chicken breasts lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help the breading stick better.
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Make The Soup Sauce
In a bowl, mix the Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup with a little water or milk (about ½ cup). This will help thin it out to a pourable consistency. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Prepare The Breadcrumb Coating
In a shallow dish, combine your breadcrumbs with melted butter. Mix well to ensure all the breadcrumbs are coated with the buttery goodness.
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Coat And Arrange
Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere evenly to the chicken. Arrange the breaded chicken in a baking dish.
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Bake
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the breaded chicken breasts in the baking dish. This ensures that the chicken stays moist and the sauce forms a rich base for the dish. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
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Garnish & Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, and serve. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they’re easy to stuff and cook quickly. If you prefer a juicier cut, you can also use chicken thighs, though they will need a bit more cooking time.
- Ham: The ham in this recipe brings that salty, savory element that balances out the richness of the cheese and soup. If you’re looking for something with a bit of a kick, try using smoked ham for a more robust flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese has the perfect meltiness and a mild, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with both the chicken and ham. However, if you don’t have Swiss on hand, Gruyère or even mozzarella can work as substitutes.
- Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: The star of this dish for its creamy texture and flavor. It also acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring the chicken remains moist. You could use other cream soups, like cream of mushroom, but the chicken flavor is ideal here.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are especially good for a crispier texture, while regular breadcrumbs are more traditional. The choice is yours based on the texture you prefer.
Expert Tips
- Chicken Tenderness: If your chicken breasts are large or thick, consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents dryness.
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before preparing the dish. It adds a tangy, herby kick to the chicken.
- Cheese Options: While Swiss is the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a twist.
- Freezer-Friendly: If you want to prep in advance, you can assemble the chicken and freeze it before baking. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking, and then follow the cooking instructions as usual.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Cordon Bleu: Substitute the ham with thinly sliced zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian take on this classic. Use a plant-based cheese for a fully vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a little heat by incorporating a small amount of chili flakes or hot sauce into the soup mixture or seasoning the breadcrumbs with paprika or cayenne pepper.
- Bacon Cordon Bleu: For an even more indulgent dish, swap out the ham for crispy bacon. The smoky flavor will complement the cheese and chicken perfectly.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your Campbell’s soup is also gluten-free, as some varieties contain wheat.
Final Words
Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of those dishes that feels like a treat every time you make it. Thanks to Campbell’s Soup, this recipe cuts down on prep time without compromising on flavor, texture, or richness. It’s an easy yet indulgent dinner that can be prepared in less than an hour and served with your favorite sides. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, melty cheese, and creamy soup sauce creates a meal that is sure to satisfy every time.