Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe: A Delicious Dinner Delight
When it comes to classic comfort food, Chicken Cordon Bleu stands tall as a favorite among many. This dish may sound fancy, but fear not; it’s easier to make than you might think. With a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To whip up Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 1.5 pounds in total, to serve 4 people.
- 4 slices of ham: You can use regular ham or even turkey ham if you prefer.
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts wonderfully and adds a creamy touch.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken.
- 2 large eggs: These will act as the “glue” for the breading.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch.
- Salt and pepper: To season the chicken to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a light pan-frying.
Preparation Time:
The entire process from start to finish should take you around 45-50 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special without too much fuss.
Step-by-Step Preparation:
Now, let’s break down the process into simple steps:
Step 1: Flatten the Chicken:
- Lay a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper.
- Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. This step ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese:
- Place a slice of ham on top of each chicken breast.
- Follow it with a slice of Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Roll and Secure:
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from the narrowest end.
- Secure with toothpicks to keep them together.
Step 5: Dredge in Flour:
- Roll each chicken roll in flour, coating it evenly. This helps the egg stick to the chicken.
Step 6: Egg Bath:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together.
- Dip each chicken roll into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well coated.
Step 7: Breadcrumb Coating:
- Roll the egg-coated chicken rolls in breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere to the chicken.
Step 8: Heat the Pan:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 9: Pan-Fry the Chicken:
- Place the chicken rolls in the hot pan, seam side down.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 10: Remove Toothpicks and Serve:
- Carefully remove the toothpicks from the cooked chicken.
- Slice each roll into thick, succulent medallions.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Cordon Bleu is delicious on its own, but you can take it up a notch with some creamy Dijon mustard sauce or a simple mushroom gravy. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables, like steamed broccoli or buttery mashed potatoes, for a complete meal.
A Few Tips:
- If you’re in a hurry, you can use store-bought breaded chicken cutlets to skip the breading process.
- Be cautious when using toothpicks, and make sure to remove them all before serving.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this ensures a nice, even browning.
In Conclusion:
Chicken Cordon Bleu may have a fancy name, but it’s a straightforward dish to prepare at home. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular weeknight, this recipe is a winner that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, don your apron and get ready to savor the flavors of this classic favorite!
Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe(youtube)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTx5FpfJito