Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Deliciously Low-Carb Twist

Are you craving the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but trying to stick to a ketogenic diet? Look no further! This Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe delivers all the deliciousness of the original, without the carbs. We’ve transformed the traditional breaded and rolled dish into a satisfying and easy-to-make open-faced version, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe replaces the carb-heavy breading with a flavorful almond flour crust and skips the traditional roll-up for a simpler, more elegant presentation. The result is tender chicken breasts topped with savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon sauce – a truly decadent and guilt-free keto meal.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu

* **Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly:** This recipe is specifically designed to fit into a ketogenic lifestyle, with minimal carbohydrates.
* **Delicious and Satisfying:** It captures the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu that you know and love.
* **Easy to Make:** The open-faced format simplifies the preparation process, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Elegant Presentation:** The open-faced style makes this dish visually appealing and perfect for entertaining.
* **Gluten-Free:** This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken Breasts:** Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. About 6 oz each is ideal. Make sure the chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking.
* **Ham:** Thinly sliced ham, such as Black Forest ham or prosciutto, adds a salty and savory element. You can use leftover ham from the holidays or purchase it pre-sliced at the deli counter. Look for low-sodium options if desired.
* **Swiss Cheese:** Swiss cheese provides a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that complements the chicken and ham. Gruyere cheese can also be used as a substitute.
* **Almond Flour:** Almond flour serves as a low-carb breading alternative, providing a slightly nutty flavor and crispy texture. Make sure to use finely ground almond flour for the best results. Do not substitute with almond meal which is more coarse.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor to the almond flour coating.
* **Eggs:** Eggs act as a binder, helping the almond flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Dijon mustard adds a tangy and flavorful element to the creamy sauce. Look for a Dijon mustard that is free of added sugars.
* **Mayonnaise:** Use full-fat mayonnaise for the richest and most flavorful sauce. Alternatively, avocado oil mayonnaise works well too.
* **Heavy Cream:** Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can also use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less thick.
* **Garlic Powder:** Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the chicken and sauce.
* **Onion Powder:** Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
* **Paprika:** Paprika adds a touch of color and a mild smoky flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the chicken and sauce to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
* **Olive Oil or Avocado Oil:** Use olive oil or avocado oil for cooking the chicken. These oils have a high smoke point, making them ideal for pan-frying.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of paprika can be used as garnishes to enhance the presentation of the dish.

## Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

### Preparation (Approximately 15 minutes)

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a nice, crispy crust. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. **Prepare the Almond Flour Coating:** In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This creates a flavorful and crispy coating for the chicken.
3. **Prepare the Egg Wash:** In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs lightly. This will help the almond flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
4. **Prepare the Dijon Cream Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside for later.
5. **Slice the Cheese and Ham:** Ensure the Swiss cheese and ham are sliced thinly. This will allow them to melt evenly and create a nice layer of flavor on top of the chicken. If you are using thick slices of ham, you can use a knife to cut them into thinner pieces.

### Cooking (Approximately 25-30 minutes)

1. **Bread the Chicken:** Dredge each chicken breast in the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the mixture adheres to the chicken on both sides. Shake off any excess almond flour. This step is crucial for creating a crispy and flavorful crust.
2. **Sear the Chicken:** Heat olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This step helps to create a flavorful crust and lock in the juices. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
3. **Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:** Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with a layer of thinly sliced ham, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese. Use enough ham and cheese to adequately cover the chicken, but don’t overcrowd it. It should be a balanced topping.
4. **Bake in the Oven:** Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
5. **Add the Sauce:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the Dijon cream sauce over the top of each chicken cordon bleu. Be generous with the sauce, as it adds a lot of flavor and moisture to the dish.
6. **Broil Briefly (Optional):** For a more golden brown and bubbly top, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This step is optional, but it can enhance the presentation of the dish.
7. **Rest and Serve:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives, if desired.

## Tips for Perfect Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu

* **Pound the Chicken Evenly:** Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is crucial for ensuring they cook evenly and quickly. This also helps to prevent them from drying out. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about ½ inch thickness.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet:** When searing the chicken, be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature of the oil, resulting in the chicken steaming instead of searing. This will prevent the crust from getting crispy.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, being careful not to touch the bone.
* **Adjust the Seasoning to Taste:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or Dijon mustard to achieve the desired flavor.
* **Make it Ahead of Time:** You can prepare the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. Simply prepare the chicken as directed in the recipe, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, proceed with the searing and baking steps.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts, ham, and Swiss cheese. Use full-fat mayonnaise and heavy cream for the richest and most flavorful sauce.
* **Customize Your Sauce:** Feel free to customize the Dijon cream sauce to your liking. You can add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor. For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Variations:** There are endless variations you can make to this Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. Here are a few ideas:
* **Mushroom Sauce:** Replace the Dijon cream sauce with a creamy mushroom sauce. Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until softened, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
* **Spinach and Artichoke Filling:** Add a layer of spinach and artichoke dip to the chicken before topping it with ham and cheese. This adds a delicious and nutritious element to the dish.
* **Bacon and Ranch:** Replace the ham with crispy bacon and the Dijon cream sauce with ranch dressing. This creates a fun and flavorful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu.

## Serving Suggestions

This Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a light and refreshing accompaniment to the rich and savory chicken cordon bleu. Choose your favorite greens, such as romaine lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens. Add some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and carrots for extra color and nutrients.
* **Asparagus:** Roasted or steamed asparagus is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs well with chicken. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting or steaming. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
* **Cauliflower Rice:** Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It’s a versatile side dish that can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Try sautéing the cauliflower rice with garlic, onions, and your favorite herbs and spices.
* **Broccoli:** Steamed or roasted broccoli is another healthy and delicious side dish that pairs well with chicken. Toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting or steaming. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
* **Zucchini Noodles:** Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Toss the zoodles with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite sauce. They make a light and refreshing side dish that complements the richness of the chicken cordon bleu.

## Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

* Calories: Approximately 450-550
* Net Carbs: 5-7 grams
* Protein: 40-50 grams
* Fat: 30-40 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.* It’s always best to calculate your own macro intake based on brands you purchase and exact amounts used.

## Recipe Card

**Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu**

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25-30 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
* 4 slices ham, thinly sliced
* 4 slices Swiss cheese
* 1 cup almond flour
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* ½ teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
* Fresh parsley or chopped chives for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry and pound to ½ inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. In a shallow dish, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate dish, whisk eggs lightly.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Dredge each chicken breast in egg wash, then in almond flour mixture. Shake off excess.
7. Heat olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
8. Transfer chicken to baking sheet. Top with ham and Swiss cheese.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
10. Drizzle with Dijon cream sauce.
11. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden brown top (optional).
12. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired.

## Conclusion

This Keto Open-Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu while sticking to a low-carb diet. It’s easy to make, elegant to serve, and sure to become a new favorite in your keto meal rotation. Enjoy!