Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu
The Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the deliciousness of Chicken Cordon Bleu. This classic recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb coating. It’s a dish that never fails to satisfy and is sure to become a family favorite.
A Dish with a French Twist
Chicken Cordon Bleu may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to make. The name “Cordon Bleu” actually comes from the French term for “blue ribbon,” which symbolizes excellence. And excellence is exactly what you’ll get when you take that first bite of this mouthwatering dish.
The Ingredients
To make Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. You’ll start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which will be stuffed with slices of ham and Swiss cheese. Then, the chicken is coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a combination of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, prepare the chicken breasts by cutting a pocket into each one. Next, stuff each pocket with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. Once the chicken is stuffed, secure the pockets with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
Next, prepare the breadcrumb coating by combining breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs in a shallow dish. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
The Perfect Pairings
Chicken Cordon Bleu is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of tasty side dishes. Consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy sauce that forms during baking can be drizzled over the chicken and used as a flavorful dip for the side dishes.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that brings together the best of comfort food and gourmet cuisine. Its simple yet elegant flavors make it a versatile option for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dish?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of cheese for Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or even cheddar to add your own unique twist to the dish.
Q: Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Of course! Turkey Cordon Bleu is a delicious alternative if you prefer poultry other than chicken.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: As mentioned earlier, mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables are great side dish options. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked chicken breasts for later use. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked ham for Chicken Cordon Bleu?
A: While pre-cooked ham can be used, using fresh ham slices will give you a juicier and more flavorful result.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
Q: Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu without breadcrumbs?
A: If you prefer a gluten-free version or simply want to skip the breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes or almond meal as a coating instead. It will still give you a crispy texture and delicious flavor.
Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp of whole-grain mustard
- 2 tbsp of mascarpone cheese
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- Four 5-ounce boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- 4 large thin slices of Emmentaler or Swiss cheese (approximately 4 ounces each)
- 8 thin slices of Black Forest ham (approximately 4 ounces total)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the mustard and mascarpone. Set aside.
- Preheat the broiler to high.
- Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and heat for an additional 1 minute.
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook on the first side until it turns golden brown, approximately 4 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and continue cooking until it is just cooked through, approximately 2 minutes more. Remove from heat.
- Place half a slice of cheese on each chicken breast.
- Layer 2 slices of ham on top of the cheese on each breast.
- Evenly divide the mustard sauce over the ham and top with the remaining cheese slices.
- Broil until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly, which should take about 2 minutes.
