Description
Cordon Bleu Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring ground chicken mixed with smoked ham and spices, stuffed with Swiss cheese, and cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion and come with tips for crispiness and reheating.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup smoked ham, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- Cooking spray
Optional Coating
- Extra Panko bread crumbs for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped ham, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and eggs. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
- Add the Bread Crumbs: Gradually mix in the Panko bread crumbs until the mixture holds together well, ensuring the bites will maintain their shape during cooking.
- Form the Bites: Take small portions of the chicken mixture and shape it around each Swiss cheese cube, forming approximately 2-inch balls that completely encase the cheese.
- Optional Coating: For extra crispiness, roll each bite in additional Panko bread crumbs to create a crunchy exterior once cooked.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Bites: Arrange the bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer without touching. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to promote browning.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through and spraying again lightly with cooking spray, until the bites are golden brown and cooked through with melted cheese inside.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the Cordon Bleu Bites hot, accompanied by Dijon cream sauce, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce for a flavorful appetizer experience.
Notes
- Cheese Tip: Use frozen Swiss cheese cubes for easier shaping and to prevent excessive melting during cooking.
- Oven Alternative: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning if an air fryer is not available.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain a crispy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
