If you’re looking to impress family and friends with a delicious and sophisticated dish, look no further than chicken cordon bleu. This classic recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, all enveloped in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to bring this culinary delight to life!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken cordon bleu) contains approximately:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it to about 1/2 inch thickness.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
5. Roll the chicken tightly, securing it with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off excess.
7. Dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
9. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Fry each roll until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes each.
11. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through.
12. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor. Additionally, turkey or chicken ham can replace traditional ham for a lighter option.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken cordon bleu pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. A light white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through. This dish can be frozen before cooking for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overfill the chicken rolls; this can cause them to burst during cooking.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Be careful not to skip the resting step; it helps retain juices.
- Don’t rush the breadcrumb coating; a thorough coating is essential for crunch.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mallet for even pounding of chicken breasts.
- Chill the rolled chicken before frying for better shape retention.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
- Always season every layer for maximum flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare chicken cordon bleu in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows flavors to meld.
What type of cheese works best for chicken cordon bleu?
Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can also use Gruyère, mozzarella, or Gouda for different taste profiles.
Can I make chicken cordon bleu in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is chicken cordon bleu gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives like almond flour.
How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Chicken cordon bleu is a delightful dish that combines flavor and presentation effortlessly. With its crispy exterior and savory filling, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this recipe is a must-try!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Lay a slice of ham and cheese on each chicken breast.
- Roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Dredge each roll in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry each roll until golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
