Golden Chicken Cordon Bleu Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:For the Chicken Rolls:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 slices ham (preferably thinly sliced)
4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère cheese)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
For the Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cooking:

2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. If using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer on the chicken for extra flavor.
Assemble the Rolls:

Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
Carefully roll up the chicken tightly, securing the filling inside. You can use toothpicks to help keep the rolls together, but be sure to remove them before serving.
Prepare the Breading:

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
In the first bowl, place the flour.
In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (or Italian seasoning), and salt and pepper.
Dip each chicken roll into the flour, coating it evenly. Then dip it into the beaten egg, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
Cook the Rolls:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken rolls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the rolls are golden brown.
Once browned, transfer the rolls to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Place the chicken rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted.
Serve:

Remove the toothpicks (if used) and place the chicken rolls on a serving platter.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.