Crispy, juicy, delightful: master the art of chicken cordon bleu with thighs

Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken cordon bleu, a classic culinary masterpiece. Our recipe features succulent chicken thighs, a rich filling of ham and cheese, and a golden-brown breadcrumb crust. Join us on this gastronomic adventure as we guide you step-by-step through the creation of this tantalizing dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Filling:

• 4 slices deli ham
• 4 slices Swiss cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
3. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip chicken in eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Coat chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.

2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu

1. Place a slice of ham and cheese on each chicken thigh.
2. Fold the chicken over the filling, forming a pocket.
3. Secure the pockets with toothpicks.

3. Bake

1. Place chicken cordon bleu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

4. Rest

1. Remove chicken cordon bleu from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your chicken cordon bleu will depend on the quality of the chicken, ham, and cheese you use.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken thighs are a tender cut of meat, so be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
• Serve immediately: Chicken cordon bleu is best served fresh out of the oven. The breadcrumb crust will become soggy if the dish is allowed to sit for too long.

Variations

• Use different fillings: You can experiment with different fillings for your chicken cordon bleu. Try using different types of ham, cheese, or even vegetables.
• Use different breading: Instead of panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, cracker crumbs, or even crushed potato chips.
• Make it a sandwich: Slice the chicken cordon bleu in half and serve it on a sandwich roll with your favorite condiments.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad: A fresh and crisp side salad will help to balance out the richness of the chicken cordon bleu.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to chicken cordon bleu.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and flavorful touch to the meal.

A Culinary Masterpiece for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a special dinner party or simply looking for a delicious and impressive weeknight meal, this chicken cordon bleu recipe with thighs is sure to impress your taste buds. Its combination of juicy chicken, savory filling, and crispy crust will create a memorable dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken thighs are generally more tender and flavorful.

2. What type of ham is best for chicken cordon bleu?

Any type of deli ham will work for chicken cordon bleu. However, we recommend using a high-quality ham for the best flavor.

3. Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?

Yes, you can make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time. Simply assemble the cordon bleu and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake the cordon bleu according to the recipe instructions.

4. How do I reheat chicken cordon bleu?

You can reheat chicken cordon bleu in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cordon bleu for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the microwave, place the cordon bleu on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

5. Can I freeze chicken cordon bleu?

Yes, you can freeze chicken cordon bleu. Simply assemble the cordon bleu and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cordon bleu overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the recipe instructions.