The cordon bleu revolution: a flattened feast for the senses

Craving the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu without the hassle of rolling? Look no further! Our simplified chicken cordon bleu recipe not rolled offers a delectable twist on this beloved dish, making it easier than ever to enjoy its irresistible combination of flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices ham
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Dip and Coat: Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, then into the melted butter, and finally into the bread crumb mixture.
4. Top with Cheese and Ham: Place a slice of Swiss cheese and ham on top of each chicken breast.
5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer chicken to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy sauce.

Tips for Success

• For a crispier coating, double-coat the chicken by dipping it into the melted butter and bread crumb mixture twice.
• Use high-quality Swiss cheese for a rich and flavorful experience.
• If you don’t have bread crumbs, use crushed crackers or tortilla chips.
• To ensure even cooking, use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations

• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the chicken and the cheese and ham.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms and add them to the bread crumb mixture for an earthy flavor.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Mustard: Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken before adding the cheese and ham for a tangy twist.

Benefits of Chicken Cordon Bleu Not Rolled

• Easier to Prepare: Eliminating the rolling step significantly reduces the preparation time and effort.
• More Uniform Cooking: By not rolling the chicken, you ensure that it cooks evenly throughout.
• Versatile Presentation: The flattened shape allows for more creative presentation options, such as slicing into strips or serving with a drizzle of sauce.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use other types of cheese in place of Swiss cheese?
A: Yes, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses.

Q: Can I bake the chicken in a skillet instead of an oven?
A: Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken cordon bleu before baking?
A: Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before baking.

Q: How can I make a creamy sauce to serve with the chicken cordon bleu?
A: Combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with chicken cordon bleu?
A: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, make excellent healthy sides.