Healthy twist on a classic: ground chicken cordon bleu recipe for weight-conscious foodies

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of a classic dish reimagined with a convenient twist! This chicken cordon bleu recipe using ground chicken offers a delectable symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. With its juicy, savory filling enveloped in a crispy, golden crust, this dish is sure to become a culinary masterpiece in your kitchen.

Ingredients for the Ground Chicken Mixture

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredients for the Filling

• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 slices ham

Ingredients for the Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Ground Chicken Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
2. Form the ground chicken mixture into 4 equal patties.

Assemble the Cordon Bleu

1. Place a slice of Swiss cheese and ham on each chicken patty.
2. Fold the edges of the chicken patties over the filling to enclose it completely.

Coat and Fry the Cordon Bleu

1. Dredge the assembled cordon bleu in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs.
2. Finally, roll the cordon bleu in bread crumbs.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Place the cordon bleu in the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the cordon bleu is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain it on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Variations

• Use a different cheese: Instead of Swiss cheese, you can use another melting cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar.
• Add additional fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers to the chicken mixture.
• Bake instead of fry: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ground chicken: The quality of your ground chicken will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a brand that you trust and make sure the chicken is fresh.
• Don’t overmix the ground chicken: Overmixing the ground chicken will make it tough. Mix it just until the ingredients are combined.
• Cook the cordon bleu thoroughly: It’s important to cook the cordon bleu until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted. This will ensure a safe and delicious meal.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe.

Q: What sides go well with chicken cordon bleu?
A: Classic sides that pair well with chicken cordon bleu include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Q: Can I freeze the cordon bleu before frying?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cordon bleu before frying. Simply assemble the cordon bleu and coat it in flour. Then, place the cordon bleu on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw the cordon bleu in the refrigerator overnight and then fry as directed.