Chicken Cordon Bleu I

Chicken Cordon Bleu I Recipe from Switzerland | Ingredients: chicken, Swiss cheese, ham, flour, egg whites, breadcrumbs, cooking spray

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish that consists of chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked or fried. This dish is a favorite among many for its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.

History

The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Switzerland or France. The name "Cordon Bleu" is French for "blue ribbon," which was a symbol of excellence in cooking. This dish became popular in the United States in the 1960s and has since become a staple on many restaurant menus.

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 oz each)
4 oz sliced fat-free swiss cheese (113 g)
3 oz lean smoked ham (85 g)
flour
2 beaten egg whites
0.33 cup unseasoned dry breadcrumbs
vegetable cooking spray

How to prepare

Pound the chicken breasts with the flat side of a meat mallet until they are very thin and have an even thickness.
Layer the cheese and ham on top of the chicken breasts, cutting them to fit if necessary.
Roll up the chicken and secure it with toothpicks.
Lightly coat the chicken rolls with flour, then dip them in egg whites and coat them in bread crumbs.
Generously spray the rolls with cooking spray and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
Place the chicken rolls in a baking pan.
Bake them uncovered at 350°F until they are cooked through, which should take about 30 minutes.

Variations

Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
Substitute the ham with prosciutto or bacon.
Add herbs or spices to the bread crumb mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the chicken breasts thin and even to ensure they cook evenly.

- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls so that the filling stays inside.

- Be generous with the cooking spray to ensure a crispy and golden brown crust on the chicken rolls.

- Bake the chicken rolls in the oven to ensure they are cooked through without burning the breading.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Pound the chicken breasts thin and even.

- Roll up the chicken with the filling inside and secure with toothpicks.

- Bread the chicken rolls and cook in a skillet before baking in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey breast instead of chicken.

- Use turkey bacon instead of ham.

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu sliced on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or lemon wedges.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Cordon Bleu with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a good source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

Chicken Cordon Bleu contains dairy (cheese), gluten (breadcrumbs), and eggs.

Summary

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a high-protein dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with dairy, gluten, or egg allergies.

Summary

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. With a crispy breaded crust and a gooey cheese and ham filling, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie at her charming countryside cottage. Marie was an incredible cook, and I always looked forward to our cooking adventures together.

On this particular day, Marie had a twinkle in her eye as she told me she had a special recipe to share with me. She called it Chicken Cordon Bleu, a classic French dish that she learned during her travels in Europe. I was intrigued and eager to learn how to make it.

We gathered all the ingredients we needed, including chicken breasts, ham, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Marie guided me through the process, showing me how to butterfly the chicken breasts and stuff them with ham and cheese. She explained that the key to a perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu was to secure the chicken with toothpicks and then coat it in breadcrumbs before baking it to golden perfection.

As the dish cooked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When the timer finally dinged, we eagerly pulled the Chicken Cordon Bleu out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it.

The first bite was pure bliss. The tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory ham combined to create a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Chicken Cordon Bleu countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of herbs or a drizzle of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Other times, I experiment with different types of cheese or swap out the ham for prosciutto.

One of my favorite memories of making Chicken Cordon Bleu was when my grandchildren came to visit. They had never tried the dish before and were curious to see what all the fuss was about. As I showed them how to prepare the chicken, they peppered me with questions and eagerly helped me assemble the dish.

When it came time to taste the finished product, their eyes lit up with delight. They couldn't believe how delicious it was and begged me to teach them how to make it themselves. I was overjoyed to pass down this beloved recipe to the next generation, knowing that it would continue to bring joy and comfort to my family for years to come.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day at Marie's cottage, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking and the special bond it has created between me and the people I love. Chicken Cordon Bleu will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with good company. And for that, I am truly thankful.