1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Flatten Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it’s about 1/2-inch thick.
- Assemble: Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each chicken breast. Roll up the chicken tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks if needed.
2. Bread the Chicken:
- Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken rolls in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Cook: Air fry the chicken at 370°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
4. Prepare the Swiss Cheese Sauce:
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture is lightly golden.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
5. Serve:
- Remove Toothpicks: If you used toothpicks to secure the chicken, remove them before serving.
- Top with Sauce: Place the cooked chicken on serving plates and spoon the Swiss cheese sauce over the top.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Properly Flatten: Ensure the chicken is flattened evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps achieve an even, crispy texture.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Conclusion: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu with Swiss Cheese Sauce is a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. With its crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy Swiss cheese sauce adds a rich, indulgent touch, making this meal a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this savory, flavorful dish that combines classic French elegance with the convenience of the air fryer!