Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 chicken fillets; 4 slices of ham; 4 slices of Swiss cheese; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup of flour; 1 egg; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 23, 2025

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Ah, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu! This dish has a special place in my heart because it perfectly blends comfort and elegance without the fuss. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was intimidated by the traditional version, with all that frying and messy cleanup. But then I discovered the magic of the air fryer, and everything changed! Now, I can whip up this crispy, cheesy delight in no time, and it’s simply delicious.

What I love about this recipe is how straightforward it is. You get that savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and tender chicken, all wrapped up in one neat package. Plus, the air fryer gives it that golden crunch without all the oil! It’s a fantastic way to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day. Trust me, once you try this Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation!

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
4 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
4 slices of Swiss cheese
1 cup packed breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg (beaten)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Getting your Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu just right is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, crispy meal ready to impress in no time. Let’s jump right in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because you want your chicken to cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Flatten the chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken fillets and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook more evenly and makes rolling easier.
Add the filling: Lay two slices of ham and two slices of Swiss cheese on each flattened chicken fillet. Make sure to leave a little space around the edges so everything stays tucked in.
Seal the chicken: Carefully fold the chicken over to encase the ham and cheese. You can secure the edges with toothpicks if you like, but I usually don’t find it necessary.
Coat the chicken: Start by dredging each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip them in the beaten egg, letting the extra drip off before coating with breadcrumbs. This triple coating gives you that crunch we all love!
Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to clean up!
Cook the chicken: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and spray the tops with a little cooking spray for that extra crispy finish. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Check for doneness: Once the cooking time is up, make sure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C). If not, pop it back in for a couple more minutes.
Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This helps keep all that gooey cheese from spilling out right away. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 40 minutes!
Flavorful: The combination of savory ham, rich Swiss cheese, and tender chicken creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means you get that crispy exterior without the excess oil, making it a lighter choice than traditional frying.
Gluten-Free: Easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, so everyone can enjoy it!
Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or celebrating a special occasion!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips up your sleeve. Trust me, these little tricks can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic!

Choose the Right Chicken

When selecting your chicken fillets, go for ones that are about the same thickness. This ensures even cooking. If you find some are a bit thicker than others, don’t hesitate to pound them down to that perfect 1/2 inch. It’s all about consistency!

Don’t Skip the Preheating!

Always preheat your air fryer. It’s a crucial step that helps achieve that beautiful golden crust. Waiting those extra few minutes for preheating is so worth it. Your chicken will thank you!

Perfecting the Coating

For that crunchy texture, make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating. This helps the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs stick better. And don’t rush the dredging process! Take your time to ensure each piece is evenly coated. It makes a world of difference!

Check for Doneness

Invest in a meat thermometer if you don’t have one yet! It’s a game changer. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re unsure, it’s always better to check than to risk undercooking.

Let It Rest

After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This simple step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Plus, it gives you a moment to set the table or pour a drink!

With these tips, you’re all set to create a delicious Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu that will impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is that it’s incredibly versatile! You can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Cheese Choices

Different Cheeses: Instead of Swiss, try using provolone for a little extra zing, or sharp cheddar for a richer flavor. Gouda melts beautifully, adding a smoky touch!
Herbed Cream Cheese: For a creamy twist, spread a thin layer of herbed cream cheese inside before adding the ham and regular cheese. It adds a delightful tang!

Ham Alternatives

Turkey or Chicken Ham: If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken ham works great without sacrificing flavor.
Prosciutto: For a touch of elegance, use prosciutto. Its salty depth elevates the dish to a whole new level!

Herbs and Seasonings

Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary on the chicken before sealing it up for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs or using spicy ham.

Vegetable Additions

Spinach or Kale: For some added nutrition, layer in a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed kale with the ham and cheese.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese.

These variations let you customize your Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu to fit any occasion or mood. Get creative and have fun experimenting! Each twist can turn this classic dish into something uniquely yours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers from your Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a delightful treat for the next day! Proper storage and reheating are key to keeping that amazing flavor and texture intact.

To store your leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It’s best to keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re feeling fancy, you can layer parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking!

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the air fryer again to bring back that glorious crunch. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken inside. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will revive the crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy.

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat in the oven. Just place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it up at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.

Microwaving is an option too, but it tends to make the coating a bit soggy. If you go this route, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warmed through. Not the best method, but it works in a pinch!

With these tips, you can enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu leftovers just as much as when they were freshly made. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for a serving of Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g

This dish packs a punch with high protein content, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and balanced!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before you start. You’ll want to pound it to that perfect 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking. Frozen chicken can take longer to cook, so keep an eye on the internal temperature!

Q2: What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving it with a tangy honey mustard or a creamy ranch. You could also go for a classic marinara or even a zesty garlic aioli. It really depends on your mood!

Q3: Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and bread it ahead of time! Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the air fryer—easy peasy!

Q4: How do I ensure the cheese doesn’t leak out during cooking?
To minimize cheese leakage, make sure you fold the chicken tightly over the filling and really seal those edges. If you want extra assurance, you can use toothpicks to secure them, just remember to remove them before serving!

Q5: Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives such as cashew cheese or almond-based cheese slices. Just ensure they’re well-melted varieties for the best results. You can also swap out the ham for a plant-based option to keep it completely dairy-free.