Chicken Cordon Bleu is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that’s both simple to prepare and full of mouthwatering flavor.
What Is Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a stuffed chicken breast, traditionally filled with thin slices of ham and Swiss cheese. The stuffed chicken is then breaded and fried or baked, creating a golden, crispy exterior that encases the savory filling. Originating in Switzerland, this dish has become a favorite in many households and is often served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Flatten the Chicken Evenly: When pounding the chicken, make sure it’s uniform in thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the filling stays inside.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F for fully cooked chicken.
- Crust Matters: If you want an extra crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. They provide a light, airy texture that adds crunch to each bite.
- Chill Before Cooking: After breading the chicken, let it chill in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the breadcrumbs set and prevents them from falling off while cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken with too much ham and cheese. This can cause the filling to spill out while cooking.
Variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu
While the traditional recipe calls for Swiss cheese and ham, there are many ways to customize Chicken Cordon Bleu to your taste:
- Cheese Variations: You can swap Swiss cheese for mozzarella, Gruyère, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Instead of ham, you can use prosciutto, turkey, or even bacon for a different twist on the classic.
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Stuffed Chicken Breasts: If you’re not fond of rolling up the chicken, you can cut a pocket into each breast and stuff it with the ham and cheese instead.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken and the gooey cheese filling.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: A light, fragrant rice pilaf can absorb the flavors from the chicken and complement the meal.
How to Store Chicken Cordon Bleu
If you have leftovers, Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container.
- When ready to reheat, you can either bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or warm it up in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Chicken Cordon Bleu can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze:
- Prepare the chicken as directed, but don’t cook it.
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- To cook from frozen, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can offer more flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to take longer to cook through.
2. Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls, bread them, and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to allow extra cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
3. Can I bake Chicken Cordon Bleu instead of frying it? Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still gives a nice crispy coating. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Can I add vegetables inside the chicken? Yes! Feel free to add a layer of spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted peppers along with the ham and cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that’s both simple to prepare and full of mouthwatering flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 thin slices ham
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cups corn flakes (crushed, or substitute with breadcrumbs)
- 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
For the sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 teaspoons yellow mustard (to taste)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally, creating two thinner pieces. Place the chicken between plastic wrap and pound it out with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness (be gentle to avoid tearing).
- Place a slice of ham and a handful of shredded Swiss cheese on each chicken piece. Roll them up tightly, tucking in the sides, and then wrap them in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure the rolls. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a day in advance).
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unwrap the chicken rolls, season with salt and pepper, and set aside. Crush the cornflakes in a food processor until fine crumbs form, then transfer them to a shallow dish. Melt the butter in another shallow dish.
- Dip each chicken roll into the melted butter, then coat with the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to make sure they stick. Place the rolls on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Mix the mayonnaise and mustard together in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the mustard to your liking.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 606Total Fat 44gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 155mgSodium 1130mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 0gSugar 2gProtein 42g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Outcome
Chicken Cordon Bleu is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of sophistication, making it the perfect dish to serve at family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying, flavorful meal. With endless variations, easy-to-follow steps, and tips to perfect your technique, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both delicious and memorable. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in this gourmet delight.
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