Chicken Cordon Bleu
Ingredients
- 2 whole boneless chicken breasts skinned, split into halves, and trimmed
- 4 cooked European ham slices
- 4 slices Gruyère cheese
- 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 cups dry bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons canola oil, for frying
- 1 teaspoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place a half chicken breasts skin side up on a sheet of plastic wrap. Cover it with a second sheet of wrap and, with a flat (not textured) wooden mallet, lightly beat it until flattened to a uniform thinness of less than ¼ inch. Set aside. Repeat this operation for all four pieces.
- Prepare the breaded ingredients: Cut the ham and cheese into thin slices, 2 inches wide and 3 inches long. Break the egg into a shallow bowl and beat until smooth, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the crumbs on a second shallow bowl. Spread the flour on a dinner plate.
- Bread the cordon bleu: Lay the chicken pieces on a flat work surface, skin side down. Lightly brush the inside of each breast with a little mustard. Don't use too much or the mustard will overpower the other flavors. Stack 2 half slices of cheese and a slice of ham in the center of each breast. Fold over the small side of the breast, then fold each end up, like an envelope, and finally fold over the large side. Make sure that the filling is completely encased.
- Roll the chicken first in the flour, shake off the excess, and then dip each breast in the egg, allowing the excess to flow back into the bowl. Lay it in the crumbs. Roll it carefully so that it doesn't open up, patting the crumbs into all sides. The breadcrumbs should not get inside the folds, or they won't stay closed when it cooks. When the piece is coated, lay it on a clean, dry plate and repeat until all the pieces are breaded. Set aside for at least half an hour to allow the breading to set. You may prepare the chicken several hours or even a day ahead up to this point. Cover and refrigerate, but take the pieces out at least half an hour before cooking.
- Cook the cordon bleu: Heat a heavy skillet with the oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and fry until golden brown all around for about 4 to 5 minutes. Then, bake in a preheated oven for 10 minutes at 425°F.
- Serve: Place the cordon bleu on a paper towel to absorb any extra fat, and serve at once. Garnish with lemon wedges.
Video
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu
This is a classic dish that combines tender chicken breast, savory ham, and melted cheese, all coated in crispy breadcrumbs. This delightful recipe is not only a favorite among diners but also a rewarding dish to make at home. Here are some essential cooking tips to ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu turns out perfectly every time.
1. Choose the Right Chicken
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. This step helps to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and allows for easier rolling.
2. Use Quality Ingredients
The flavor of your Chicken Cordon Bleu depends significantly on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality ham, such as prosciutto or smoked ham, and a good melting cheese like Swiss or Gruyère. These choices enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
3. Master the Rolling Technique
When assembling your Chicken Cordon Bleu, place the ham and cheese inside the chicken breast and roll it tightly, securing it with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This technique helps keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
4. Bread It Right
For that perfect crunchy exterior, use a three-step breading process: dip the chicken in flour, then egg wash, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or herbs to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
5. Cooking Method
You can choose to bake or fry your Chicken Cordon Bleu. Baking is a healthier option that allows the chicken to cook evenly without excess oil. If frying, ensure the oil is hot enough (about 350°F) to create a crispy coating without absorbing too much grease.
6. Let It Rest
After cooking, let your Chicken Cordon Bleu rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
7. Serve with a Complementary Sauce
Enhance your experience by serving it with a complementary sauce. A simple Dijon mustard sauce or a creamy white wine sauce pairs beautifully and adds a gourmet touch to the dish.
8. Pair with Sides
Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu with sides that balance its richness. Consider light salads, roasted vegetables, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
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