Indulge in culinary delight: try our top-rated chicken cordon bleu recipe from good housekeeping

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our impeccable chicken cordon bleu recipe, meticulously crafted by the culinary experts at Good Housekeeping. This iconic dish, a symphony of flavors and textures, will elevate your home cooking to new heights.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup sliced ham
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Create the Breadcrumbs: Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, then dip them into the eggs, and finally coat them in the bread crumb mixture.

4. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Lay a slice of ham on each chicken breast. Top with a layer of Swiss cheese. Fold the chicken over to enclose the filling.

6. Bake Until Melty: Transfer the chicken cordon bleu to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve with Elegance: Serve the chicken cordon bleu immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges.

Culinary Tips:

• For a crispy crust, double-bread the chicken breasts by repeating the breading process.
• Use high-quality ham and Swiss cheese for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts.
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Variations:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon: Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken breasts before adding the ham and cheese.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Spinach: Sautéed spinach can be added to the filling for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the filling for an earthy flavor.

A Culinary Legacy: The History of Chicken Cordon Bleu

The origins of chicken cordon bleu can be traced back to the 19th century in Switzerland. The dish was originally called “cordon bleu” and was made with veal. However, over time, chicken became the more popular choice. The name “cordon bleu” refers to the blue ribbon worn by the highest-ranking chefs in France, symbolizing the dish’s culinary excellence.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of chicken cordon bleu contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35 grams
• Fat: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Thaw them completely before cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken cordon bleu is cooked through?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

3. Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken breasts up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

4. What is a good substitute for Swiss cheese?
You can use Gruyère, Emmental, or Fontina cheese as a substitute for Swiss cheese.

5. Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use veal, pork, or even fish for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.