Simplify sophistication: deconstructed chicken cordon bleu recipe for effortless elegance

The classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, with its golden-brown coating, melted cheese, and tender chicken, has captivated taste buds for generations. This deconstructed chicken cordon bleu recipe offers a modern twist on the beloved dish, breaking it down into its essential components for an explosion of flavors and textures on your plate.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Ham and Cheese:

• 4 slices Black Forest ham
• 4 slices Swiss cheese

For the Mornay Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon-Herb Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the chicken breasts in the seasoned flour mixture.

Cook the Chicken:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Ham and Cheese:
1. Cut the ham and cheese into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Mornay Sauce:
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Make the Lemon-Herb Butter:
1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme.

Assemble the Deconstructed Cordon Bleu:
1. Place the cooked chicken on a plate.
2. Top with the ham and cheese pieces.
3. Pour the Mornay sauce over the chicken and cheese.
4. Dot the lemon-herb butter on top.

Tips

• For a crispy chicken crust, double-dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture.
• Use a good quality Black Forest ham for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley and thyme.
• Serve the deconstructed chicken cordon bleu immediately for the best experience.

Variations

• Add a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Jarlsberg, for the Mornay sauce.
• Top with a drizzle of truffle oil for a touch of elegance.

Benefits of Deconstructing Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Customization: Deconstructing the dish allows you to customize it to your preferences, choosing your preferred ham, cheese, and sauce combinations.
• Presentation: The deconstructed presentation creates a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests.
• Texture: The combination of crispy chicken, tender ham, and creamy sauce provides a delightful contrast of textures.
• Flavor: The flavors of each component shine through, creating a symphony of taste on your palate.

Key Points: A Modern Culinary Delight

This deconstructed chicken cordon bleu recipe offers a fresh and innovative take on a classic dish. By breaking down the elements and assembling them creatively, you can create a culinary masterpiece that is both visually stunning and palate-pleasing. Experiment with different variations and enjoy this modern interpretation of a beloved comfort food.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What can I use instead of Black Forest ham?
A: You can use any type of deli ham you prefer, such as honey ham or smoked ham.

Q: Can I make the Mornay sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Mornay sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply reheat it over low heat before serving.

Q: How can I make the dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs for the chicken coating.