Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two

Swiss Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables Recipe for Two

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe takes a twist by adding a side of vegetables to make it a complete and balanced meal for two.

History

Chicken Cordon Bleu is believed to have originated in Switzerland, where it was known as "cordon bleu" or "blue ribbon" in French. The dish gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s and has since become a staple on many restaurant menus and dinner tables.

Ingredients

2 sheets (12x18 inches each) of non-stick foil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 to 6 oz each)
2 oz of sliced swiss cheese
2 oz of sliced smoked ham
0.5 package (from a 14 oz package) of frozen vegetable blend
0.5 container (from a 10 oz container) of refrigerated Alfredo or cheese sauce
paprika

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) or preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Place one chicken breast half in the center of each sheet of Reynolds Wrap Release Non-Stick Foil, with the non-stick (dull) side facing towards the food.
Spread one-fourth of the cheese evenly over each piece of chicken.
Top the cheese with ham.
Arrange the vegetables around the chicken.
Spoon Alfredo sauce over the chicken.
Fold up the sides of the foil to create a packet, ensuring there is enough room for heat circulation inside.
Double fold the top and ends of the foil to seal the packet.
Repeat the process to make two packets in total.
Place the foil packets on a cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 19 to 23 minutes, or grill in a covered grill for 13 to 15 minutes.
Sprinkle with paprika before serving.

Variations

Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
Substitute the ham with prosciutto or bacon.
Try different vegetable blends, such as broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use non-stick foil to prevent the chicken from sticking to the foil.

- Be sure to seal the foil packets tightly to trap in the flavors and juices.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking in foil packets helps to lock in the flavors and juices, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.

- Grilling the foil packets adds a smoky flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Swiss cheese, you can use any other type of cheese that melts well.

- You can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the foil packets in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake or grill.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish 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

This recipe contains approximately 400 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 35 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and Alfredo sauce) and pork (ham) allergens.

Summary

This recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables is a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Enjoy the combination of tender chicken, savory ham, gooey cheese, and flavorful vegetables in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her exquisite taste in food and her culinary skills. As I entered her cozy kitchen, the aroma of herbs and spices filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and gestured towards the dining table, where a beautifully set table awaited us. I couldn't help but notice the delicious-looking dish in the center of the table – Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two. The golden-brown chicken breasts were stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, and served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.

I couldn't wait to dig in, but before I could even ask for the recipe, Margaret began to share the story behind this delectable dish.

"It all started when I was living in France," Margaret began. "I was studying at Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Paris, and one of my classmates taught me how to make this dish. It quickly became one of my favorites, and I've been making it ever since."

As Margaret spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking reflected in her eyes. She explained the process of preparing the Chicken Cordon Bleu step by step, from pounding the chicken breasts to stuffing them with ham and cheese, and finally baking them to perfection.

I watched in awe as Margaret effortlessly moved around the kitchen, her hands deftly working with precision and skill. She made it all look so easy, but I knew that it would take practice and patience to achieve the same level of mastery.

After a delicious meal and a delightful evening spent in Margaret's company, I left her house with a full belly and a newfound determination to recreate the Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe at home.

Over the next few weeks, I dedicated myself to mastering the art of making Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, making adjustments along the way until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

As I cooked, I could almost hear Margaret's voice guiding me through each step of the recipe. Her words of wisdom echoed in my mind, reminding me to season generously, to trust my instincts, and to always cook with love.

And finally, after countless trials and errors, I presented my version of Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two to my family. As they took their first bite, I held my breath, waiting for their verdict.

To my delight, their faces lit up with joy and satisfaction. They praised the dish for its delicious taste and elegant presentation, and I knew that all my hard work had paid off.

From that day on, Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two became a staple in our household. It was a dish that brought us together, a dish that we savored and enjoyed in each other's company.

And every time I made it, I couldn't help but think of Margaret and the invaluable lesson she had taught me – that good food has the power to nourish not only our bodies but also our souls.

So now, whenever I prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu with Vegetables for Two, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of creativity. And as I serve this beloved dish to my loved ones, I hope that it brings them as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me.