Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that beautifully combines crispy chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese. This classic recipe is not only delicious but also impressively easy to make at home. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of cheesy goodness that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of ham (e.g., Swiss or prosciutto)
– 4 slices of cheese (e.g., Swiss or mozzarella)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil or butter for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of fat, 30g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. This is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Lay a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each chicken breast.
5. Roll the chicken tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Dredge each roll first in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
7. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Sear the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
9. Transfer the rolls to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
10. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey cutlets for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to use different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda to customize the flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an excellent alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a tangy mustard sauce for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Not sealing the rolls securely can cause the cheese to leak during cooking.
- Skipping the breadcrumb coating will result in a less crispy texture.
- Using too much filling can make it difficult to roll the chicken.
- Not allowing the chicken to rest can lead to loss of juices when slicing.
Helpful Tips
- Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken for clean cuts.
- Experiment with different meats like turkey or chicken thighs for variety.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in herbs before stuffing.
- Serve with a side of lemon wedges for a refreshing contrast.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them before serving.
What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Pair it with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors to your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delightful dish that combines the best of savory flavors in a crispy, golden package. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for frying
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Lay a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each chicken breast.
- Roll the chicken tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
- Dredge each roll first in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
- Transfer the rolls to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
