Get The Inside Scoop On How To Make The Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu At Home!

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, a beloved French dish that combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy prosciutto. This classic dish is surprisingly easy to recreate in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of making Chicken Cordon Bleu at home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5-6 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded ham
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

For Breading:

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Filling

• In a small bowl, combine the shredded Swiss cheese, shredded ham, and Dijon mustard. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Cordon Bleu

• Place a few spoonfuls of the filling in the center of each chicken breast.
• Fold the chicken breasts over the filling, pressing down on the edges to seal.

4. Bread the Cordon Bleu

• Dip the sealed chicken breasts into the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally the panko breadcrumbs.
• Press the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken.

5. Pan-Fry the Cordon Bleu

• Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the cordon bleu for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Bake the Cordon Bleu

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the pan-fried cordon bleu on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Tips for Success:

• For a thinner cordon bleu, pound the chicken breasts to 1/8 inch thickness.
• Use a sharp knife to cut through the chicken without tearing the filling.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a heavy skillet or a rolling pin to pound the chicken.
• Don’t overcook the cordon bleu, as the chicken will become dry.
• Serve the cordon bleu immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Spinach: Add sautéed spinach to the filling for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the filling for a rich and earthy taste.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Goat Cheese: Replace the Swiss cheese with goat cheese for a tangy and creamy filling.

Perfect Pairing:

The rich flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu pair perfectly with a glass of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Noir.

The Culinary Art of Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the French tradition of combining simple ingredients into a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress your guests, this guide will empower you to create this timeless dish with confidence.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they will take longer to cook.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cordon bleu before or after cooking.

Q: What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad are all great options.