Elevate your table: how to make easy chicken cordon bleu in your oven for a culinary triumph
What To Know
- Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken cordon bleu, effortlessly prepared in your oven.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing balances the flavors of the cordon bleu.
Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken cordon bleu, effortlessly prepared in your oven. This easy chicken cordon bleu recipe oven will guide you through every step, ensuring a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stuffing:
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
- Place a slice of ham on each chicken breast.
- Top with Swiss cheese.
- Fold chicken over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
3. Bake:
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve:
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Use thin chicken breasts: Thinner breasts will cook evenly and prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Pound the chicken: Pounding the chicken breasts helps tenderize them and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overfill: Overfilling the chicken breasts can cause the filling to burst out during baking.
- Seal the edges well: Press the edges of the chicken together firmly to prevent the filling from escaping.
- Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature.
Variations
1. Crispy Cordon Bleu:
- Dredge chicken breasts in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy exterior.
2. Spinach and Feta Cordon Bleu:
- Replace the ham and Swiss cheese with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Chicken Cordon Bleu Bites:
- Cut chicken breasts into smaller pieces and bake for a fun appetizer.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time
- Assemble the cordon bleu: Prepare the chicken cordon bleu as directed but do not bake.
- Wrap and refrigerate: Wrap the cordon bleu tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Bake when ready: When ready to serve, bring the cordon bleu to room temperature for 30 minutes and bake as directed.
Pairing Suggestions
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the rich cordon bleu.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, add a healthy and colorful side dish.
- Green salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing balances the flavors of the cordon bleu.
“Ending on a High Note”
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of chicken cordon bleu, effortlessly prepared in your oven. With its crispy exterior, melt-in-your-mouth cheese filling, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and savor every bite of this culinary delight.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but thaw the chicken breasts completely before assembling the cordon bleu.
Q: What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
A: You can use other melty cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère.
Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu without breading?
A: Yes, you can simply skip the flour and breadcrumb coating.
