Chicken cordon bleu recipe: make ahead and savor later, perfect for weeknight feasts

Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken cordon bleu, made with juicy chicken breasts, melted cheese, and crispy prosciutto. With our make-ahead recipe, you can savor this classic dish on your schedule, without sacrificing any of its exquisite taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 4 slices of prosciutto
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup of bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, creating a pocket.
2. Season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Filling and Wrapping:

3. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on one side of the chicken breast.
4. Top with a slice of prosciutto.
5. Fold the other side of the chicken breast over the filling and secure with toothpicks.

Coating and Frying:

6. In a shallow dish, prepare three separate bowls for flour, eggs, and bread crumbs.
7. Dredge the chicken breasts in flour, then eggs, and finally bread crumbs.
8. Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat.
9. Fry the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

1. After coating, place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 months.
2. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight.
3. Fry the thawed chicken breasts as directed above.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor.
• Butterfly the chicken breasts evenly for a uniform cooking process.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying to prevent uneven cooking.
• If the bread crumbs are too coarse, crush them with a rolling pin before using.
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy sauce.

Variations:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Ham and Gruyere: Replace the prosciutto with sliced ham and Gruyere cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu: Use panko bread crumbs for an extra crispy crust.
• Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: Bake the chicken breasts at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Benefits of Make-Ahead Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Convenience: Prepare the dish ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready to enjoy it.
• Time-Saving: Avoid last-minute stress by having the meal partially prepared.
• Meal-Planning: Plan your meals in advance and ensure you have a delicious and nutritious meal on hand.

Recommendations:

Indulge in the flavors of chicken cordon bleu whenever you crave it, thanks to our make-ahead recipe. With its juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy prosciutto, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, prepare it ahead of time, and savor the delectable taste of this classic dish at your convenience.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How long can I freeze the coated chicken breasts?
A: Up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use breadcrumbs instead of bread crumbs?
A: Yes, but the texture will be different.

Q: What side dishes pair well with chicken cordon bleu?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy sauce.

Q: Can I bake the chicken cordon bleu instead of frying it?
A: Yes, bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Q: How do I reheat the make-ahead chicken cordon bleu?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per breast.