Ingredients

4 chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

8 slices ham

8 slices Swiss cheese

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 drops Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray. Set up three shallow dishes for breading: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs seasoned with salt and pepper in the third.

Step 2: Using plastic wrap as a barrier, pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish. On each breast, layer two slices of ham and two slices of Swiss cheese.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to create the creamy mustard sauce.

Step 8: Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with the mustard sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use a mix of panko and crushed cornflakes in the breadcrumb coating.

Substitute turkey ham or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, check the chicken is cooked through by cutting into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Swiss?

Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar for a different but equally delicious flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to replace the all-purpose flour and panko, and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.