Indulge in the ultimate comfort: easy chicken cordon bleu recipe with mozzarella for home chefs

Indulge in the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu with a delectable twist by adding creamy mozzarella cheese. This mouthwatering recipe elevates the traditional dish to a whole new level of culinary delight. With its crispy exterior, tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 4 slices of Black Forest ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:

• Place a slice of ham and Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
• Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
• Fold the chicken over the filling and press the edges to seal.

3. Bread the Cordon Bleu:

• Dip the assembled cordon bleu into the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.
• Press the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken to ensure even coverage.

4. Fry the Cordon Bleu:

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Carefully place the cordon bleu in the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and Serve:

• Remove the cordon bleu from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Tips

• For a crispy exterior, double-bread the cordon bleu by dipping it back into the eggs and breadcrumbs after the first coating.
• To prevent the cheese from oozing out, make sure to seal the edges of the chicken tightly before breading.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a heavy skillet or even a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts.
• Serve the cordon bleu with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.

Variations

• Experiment with different types of ham, such as prosciutto or Serrano ham.
• Add your favorite vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Instead of mozzarella, try using other types of cheese, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Gouda.

Health Benefits

• Chicken is a lean protein source that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids.
• Swiss cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12.
• Mozzarella cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and fat.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Culinary Journey

This chicken cordon bleu recipe with mozzarella is a culinary masterpiece that is both satisfying and flavorful. Its combination of tender chicken, savory ham, creamy cheese, and crispy exterior will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that will elevate your taste buds to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-sliced ham and cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-sliced ham and cheese for convenience. However, slicing your own ham and cheese will give you more control over the thickness and size.

2. How do I know when the cordon bleu is cooked through?

To check if the cordon bleu is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I bake the cordon bleu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. However, frying will give you a crispier exterior.