Chicken Cordon Bleu

Crispy and flavorful, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the richness of ham and Swiss cheese. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this classic French-inspired recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ham and Swiss cheese creates an irresistible taste that everyone loves.
• Impressive Presentation: The rolled chicken looks beautiful on any plate, making it perfect for dinner parties.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it with various sides like mashed potatoes, salads, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Easy to Make: Despite its fancy appearance, this dish is simple enough for beginners to master.
• Satisfying Meal: With hearty ingredients, this meal keeps you full and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Chicken Cordon Bleu, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Deep frying thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Provides ample space for frying multiple pieces at once, ensuring even cooking.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps tenderize the chicken to the perfect thickness for stuffing.
• Mixing bowls: Keeps your ingredients organized and separated during preparation.
• Plastic wrap: Essential for chilling the rolled chicken tightly before frying.

Ingredients

Crispy breaded chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, served with a rich Parmesan Dijon sauce. A classic French-inspired dish.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless.
– Salt to taste.
– Pepper to taste.
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder.
– 1 tablespoon onion powder.
– 16 slices Swiss cheese.
– ½ pound ham, thinly sliced.
– Peanut or vegetable oil for frying.
– 1 cup all-purpose flour.
– 4 eggs, beaten.
– 2 cups panko breadcrumbs.
– 3 tablespoons butter.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced.
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for sauce).
– 2 cups milk.
– ¼ cup Dijon mustard.
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded.
– Salt to taste (for sauce).
– Pepper to taste (for sauce).

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu

Step 1: Season the Chicken

First, season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure every piece has an even coating for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Pound the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken between plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each piece until they are about ½ inch thick. This tenderizes the meat and prepares it for stuffing.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

On each flattened chicken breast, layer:
1. 2 slices of Swiss cheese,
2. 2 slices of ham,
3. Followed by another layer of Swiss cheese,
4. And finally, another layer of ham.

Step 4: Roll and Chill

Carefully roll up each stuffed chicken breast tightly in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends securely and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 5: Heat Oil

In a deep pan, heat peanut or vegetable oil to a temperature of 325°F (163°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately.

Step 6: Prepare Coating Stations

Set up three dishes:
1. Dish one with flour,
2. Dish two with beaten eggs,
3. Dish three with panko breadcrumbs.

This assembly line will streamline the breading process.

Step 7: Bread the Chicken

Take each chilled roll out of plastic wrap. Coat each roll first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by coating in panko breadcrumbs until evenly covered.

Step 8: Fry Until Golden

Carefully place breaded rolls into hot oil. Fry them for about five minutes per side until golden brown. If necessary, finish baking them in a preheated oven at 325°F until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 9: Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until soft. Whisk in three tablespoons of flour for about one minute until combined. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in Dijon mustard and shredded Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Now you have perfectly cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu

Serving Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful experience that elevates any dinner table. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavor profile.

Classic Presentation

• Lemon Wedge – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
• Parsley Garnish – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate.

Pairing with Sauces

• Parmesan Dijon Sauce – Drizzle this creamy sauce over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
• Honey Mustard Dip – A sweet and tangy dip complements the savory notes of the chicken.

Accompaniments

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the chicken.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

Creating the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a delicious outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and quality cheese make all the difference in flavor.
• Pound Evenly – Ensure even thickness when pounding chicken to ensure even cooking.
• Chill Before Frying – Chilling helps maintain shape and ensures a crispy exterior during frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature – Keeping oil at 325°F prevents sogginess while ensuring a golden crust.
• Don’t Skip the Sauce – The Parmesan Dijon sauce adds richness that enhances the entire dish’s flavor.
• Rest Before Serving – Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, making each bite moist.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Cordon Bleu can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great suggestions that complement this classic French dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Velvety mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to crispy chicken.
3. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness to your meal.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a delightful side that absorbs flavors well.
5. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
6. French Fries – Crispy fries are always a favorite, providing a satisfying crunch alongside your entrée.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overstuffing the chicken: Adding too much ham and cheese can make it difficult to roll the chicken. Keep the layers thin for easier rolling and even cooking.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the rolled chicken can lead to a mess during frying. Make sure to chill for at least 30 minutes to help maintain its shape.
• Inconsistent thickness: If the chicken breasts are not pounded evenly, they may cook unevenly. Aim for a uniform thickness of ½ inch for perfect cooking results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder and onion powder.
• Not checking internal temperature: Relying solely on cooking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen Chicken Cordon Bleu is best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, checking often.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and reheat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish made from breaded and fried chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, often served with a creamy sauce.

Can I use other cheeses in Chicken Cordon Bleu?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with mozzarella or provolone if desired.

How do I make my Chicken Cordon Bleu healthier?

To make it healthier, consider baking instead of frying, using whole wheat breadcrumbs, or opting for low-fat cheese options.

Can I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cordon Bleu is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. This dish impresses guests while being comforting enough for family dinners. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or herbs according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese!