Indulge in culinary bliss: the ultimate chicken cordon bleu recipe with creamy delight
What To Know
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Master the art of Chicken Cordon Bleu with this delectable recipe that combines the richness of cream of chicken soup with the classic flavors of ham and cheese.
- Yes, you can assemble the cordon bleu up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with our exquisite recipe that seamlessly blends the richness of cream of chicken soup. This culinary masterpiece is a symphony of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese, enveloped in a golden-brown crust. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or an aspiring chef, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create this iconic dish with ease.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
1. Place a slice of ham and Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
2. Fold the chicken over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
Prepare the Sauce:
1. In a saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, and thyme.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Coat the Cordon Bleu:
1. In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
2. Dip the assembled cordon bleu into the bread crumb mixture, coating it evenly.
Fry the Cordon Bleu:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully place the cordon bleu in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Simmer in the Sauce:
1. Transfer the fried cordon bleu to a baking dish.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the cordon bleu.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Tips
- For a more authentic flavor, use Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss cheese.
- To prevent the breading from falling off, make sure the chicken is completely coated before frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the cordon bleu. Cook in batches if necessary.
Variations
- Ham and Swiss: The classic combination of ham and Swiss cheese is always a winner.
- Prosciutto and Fontina: Elevate the dish with the salty notes of prosciutto and the creamy texture of Fontina cheese.
- Spinach and Artichoke: Add a touch of freshness with spinach and artichoke hearts.
- Mushroom and Brie: Indulge in the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the decadent creaminess of Brie cheese.
Healthier Options
- Baked Cordon Bleu: Bake the assembled cordon bleu instead of frying it for a healthier alternative.
- Whole-Wheat Bread Crumbs: Use whole-wheat bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs for a boost of fiber.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cheese in the filling and sauce to cut down on calories.
The Bottom Line
Master the art of Chicken Cordon Bleu with this delectable recipe that combines the richness of cream of chicken soup with the classic flavors of ham and cheese. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this culinary masterpiece is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I make the cordon bleu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the cordon bleu up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature before frying and baking.
Q: How do I know when the cordon bleu is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Q: What can I serve with the cordon bleu?
A: Pair the cordon bleu with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
