Golden, crunchy chicken cordon bleu—stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese—paired with a simple, silky garlic butter spaghetti. This elegant yet approachable dish is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or anytime you crave comfort with a gourmet twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Garlic Butter Spaghetti brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The dish combines crispy breaded chicken, creamy melted cheese, and tender spaghetti tossed in aromatic garlic butter. It’s a well-rounded plate that’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to prepare.

• Elegant presentation with minimal ingredients
• Classic flavor combination of ham, cheese, and chicken
• Garlic butter spaghetti complements the richness of the chicken
• Perfect for special occasions or elevated family dinners
• Versatile and easy to customize

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
2 boneless chicken breasts, pounded thin
4 slices ham
4 slices Swiss or mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup flour
1 egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper
Oil for frying

For the Garlic Butter Spaghetti:
8 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound thin using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Lay two slices of ham and two slices of cheese on each chicken breast, then roll tightly from one end. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Dredge each roll in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.

Fry the Chicken:
5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolled chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Transfer to a plate and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into rounds.

Cook the Pasta:
7. In a large pot of salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
8. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
9. Drain the pasta and toss it into the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper. Add chopped parsley.

Serve:
10. Plate a nest of garlic butter spaghetti and top with sliced chicken cordon bleu. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Baked version: Instead of frying, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
• Cheese variety: Use Gruyère or provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Add lemon zest: Stir a little lemon zest into the spaghetti for a bright, fresh finish.
• Herb crust: Mix dried Italian herbs or grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Low-carb option: Serve with spiralized zucchini or sautéed greens instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat the chicken, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to maintain crispness.
Reheat the spaghetti on the stove with a splash of water or butter over low heat until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving the chicken if possible, as it may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can assemble and bread the chicken ahead of time. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

What’s the best cheese for cordon bleu?

Swiss is the classic choice, but mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère also work beautifully depending on your preference.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning.

How do I keep the filling from leaking?

Ensure the chicken is rolled tightly, and secure with toothpicks. You can also chill the rolled chicken for 15 minutes before breading.

What type of pasta can I use besides spaghetti?

Fettuccine, linguine, or angel hair work well. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni can be used too.

Is panko necessary for the crust?

Panko provides extra crispness, but regular breadcrumbs can be substituted. Toasting them lightly before coating can improve texture.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

Use milder cheese like mozzarella and skip the garlic in the spaghetti if needed. Cut the chicken into smaller portions for easier eating.

Can I use deli ham?

Yes, thinly sliced deli ham works perfectly. Use two slices per chicken breast for best coverage.

Can I freeze the cordon bleu?

Yes, assemble and freeze the uncooked, breaded rolls on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake from frozen, adjusting cook time accordingly.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus complement the richness of the chicken and pasta beautifully.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu with Garlic Butter Spaghetti is a delicious blend of indulgence and elegance. With its golden crust, savory filling, and aromatic pasta, this dish brings comfort and class to your table. Whether for a special occasion or a hearty family meal, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again.

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