The ultimate fried chicken cordon bleu recipe: a culinary delight

Indulge in the culinary masterpiece of fried chicken cordon bleu, a crispy and flavorful dish that tantalizes your taste buds. With this comprehensive recipe, you can recreate this restaurant-quality delight in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste

Filling:

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Breadcrumbs:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Egg Wash:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk

Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally almost all the way through, leaving a small hinge at one end.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling

• Lay the chicken breasts on a flat surface.
• Place a layer of ham on each breast, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese.
• Fold the chicken over the filling, pressing down to seal the edges.

Step 3: Prepare the Breadcrumbs

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 4: Create the Egg Wash

• In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Step 5: Bread the Chicken

• Dip the chicken into the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
• Shake off any excess flour.
• Dip the chicken into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off.
• Roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

• Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

Tips for Crispy and Flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overwork the chicken when breading it, as this can toughen it.
• Fry the chicken at the correct temperature to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to redistribute the juices and prevent it from becoming dry.

Variations:

• Ham and Gruyère: Use thinly sliced Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss cheese for a nutty and slightly salty flavor.
• Prosciutto and Mozzarella: Replace the ham with prosciutto and use fresh mozzarella cheese for a more delicate and creamy filling.
• Spinach and Feta: Sauté fresh spinach and add it to the filling along with crumbled feta cheese for a vibrant and flavorful twist.

Accompaniments:

• Honey Mustard: Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a classic honey mustard dipping sauce.
• Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a refreshing and tangy touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and zucchini for a complete and balanced meal.

“Cordon”ing Up the Culinary Experience

Chicken cordon bleu, with its crispy exterior and indulgent filling, is a culinary delight that never fails to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to elevate your dinner game, this fried chicken cordon bleu recipe will guide you to create a truly unforgettable dish.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I bake chicken cordon bleu instead of frying it?

A: Yes, you can bake chicken cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What dipping sauce pairs well with fried chicken cordon bleu?

A: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce are all great options to complement the flavors of the chicken cordon bleu.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken cordon bleu?

A: Cooked chicken cordon bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or microwave before serving.