How To Cook The Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu: Tips And Tricks From The Pros

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of homemade chicken cordon bleu, a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy breading. This step-by-step guide will guide you through the process of creating this classic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices ham

For the Breading:

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Create the Filling

• Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.

3. Roll the Cordon Bleu

• Roll up the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks.

4. Coat in Flour

• Dredge the chicken rolls in flour, shaking off any excess.

5. Dip in Eggs

• Dip the floured chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.

6. Bread the Rolls

• Roll the eggs-dipped chicken rolls in bread crumbs. Press firmly to adhere.

7. Fry or Bake

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Fry the chicken rolls for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Alternatively, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

8. Serve

• Remove the toothpicks and serve the chicken cordon bleu hot, accompanied by your favorite sides.

Tips

• For a chewier filling, use a thicker slice of Swiss cheese.
• To prevent the filling from leaking out, double-wrap the chicken rolls with ham and cheese.
• If you don’t have toothpicks, use kitchen twine to secure the chicken rolls.
• For a crispy exterior, fry the chicken rolls in a shallow layer of hot oil.
• If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can make your own by toasting bread and then crushing it in a food processor.

Variations

• Mushroom Cordon Bleu: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling.
• Spinach Cordon Bleu: Add sautéed spinach to the filling.
• Prosciutto Cordon Bleu: Use prosciutto instead of ham for a more delicate flavor.
• Baked Cordon Bleu: Bake the chicken rolls instead of frying them for a healthier option.

Pairing Suggestions

• Sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Sauces: Honey mustard, Dijon mustard, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
• Drinks: A glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail.

Culinary Conclusion

Mastering the art of homemade chicken cordon bleu will elevate your culinary skills and impress your dinner guests. With its tender chicken, flavorful filling, and crispy breading, this dish is a true delight that will leave a lasting impression. Experiment with different variations to find your favorite and enjoy the satisfaction of creating this classic dish in your own kitchen.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can. Thighs are a bit fattier, but they will still cook well.

Q: How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken cordon bleu?
A: Yes, you can. Let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I reheat frozen chicken cordon bleu?
A: You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes per roll.

Q: What is the best way to serve chicken cordon bleu?
A: Serve it hot with your favorite sides and a drizzle of your preferred sauce.