Master the art of cordon bleu with ina garten’s fail-proof recipe

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with the tantalizing Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe from the renowned Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten. This classic French dish, renowned for its irresistible combination of flavors, has been elevated to new heights by Garten’s signature touch.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally almost all the way through, leaving them attached at the hinge. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, then dip them in the eggs, and finally coat them in the bread crumb mixture.
4. Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the white wine to the skillet and cook, scraping up any browned bits, until reduced by half.
6. Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the gruyere and Swiss cheeses and cook until melted and smooth.
7. Return the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve and Savor: Garnish the chicken cordon bleu with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Culinary Tips: Secrets from the Barefoot Contessa

• For extra crispy chicken, press down on the chicken breasts as they cook.
• To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature, which should be 165°F.
• If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute chicken broth.
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Variations: A Culinary Canvas

• Ham and Swiss: Instead of ham, use sliced Swiss cheese for a classic variation.
• Prosciutto and Mozzarella: Elevate the dish with slices of prosciutto and creamy mozzarella cheese.
• Spinach and Feta: Add a touch of freshness with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese.

The Art of Presentation: A Visual Feast

• Arrange the chicken cordon bleu on a platter with a drizzle of the sauce.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a vibrant touch.
• Serve with a side of lemon wedges to add a refreshing contrast.

The Culinary Legacy: A Timeless Classic

The Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe from Barefoot Contessa is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic French cuisine. Its combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy coating has captivated taste buds for generations.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the best way to butterfly the chicken breasts?
A: Use a sharp knife to make a horizontal cut through the chicken breast, leaving the hinge intact.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda.

Q: How long can I store the chicken cordon bleu?
A: Store the chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.