Unveiling the secrets: the ultimate chicken cordon bleu with creamy white sauce

Indulge in the culinary delight of chicken cordon bleu, a delectable dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Enhanced with a rich and creamy white sauce, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 slices of ham
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs

For the White Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
4. Roll up the chicken breasts tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Breading the Chicken:

1. Dredge the chicken rolls in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip the chicken rolls into the beaten eggs.
3. Roll the chicken rolls in bread crumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.

Frying the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
3. Fry the chicken rolls for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Making the White Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Place the fried chicken rolls on a serving platter.
2. Spoon the white sauce over the chicken rolls.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Tips:

• For a crispy crust, double-coat the chicken in flour, eggs, and bread crumbs.
• To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Variations:

• Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the white sauce for extra flavor.
• Bake the chicken cordon bleu in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a different texture.

Health Benefits of Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Chicken is a lean protein source that provides essential amino acids.
• Swiss cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
• Bread crumbs add fiber and carbohydrates to the dish.
• The white sauce contains milk, which is a good source of calcium and vitamin D.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu without ham?
A: Yes, you can omit the ham if desired.

Q: What is a good substitute for bread crumbs?
A: You can use crushed crackers, cereal flakes, or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken cordon bleu?
A: Store the leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken cordon bleu?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken cordon bleu before frying. Place the breaded chicken rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: How do I reheat frozen chicken cordon bleu?
A: To reheat frozen chicken cordon bleu, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, fry it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

In a nutshell:

Indulge in the culinary artistry of chicken cordon bleu with white sauce, a dish that seamlessly blends flavors and textures to create a symphony of taste. Experiment with variations and enjoy the health benefits this delectable dish offers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook seeking culinary adventure, this chicken cordon bleu recipe with white sauce will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.