Are you ready to dive into a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious? This Cordon Bleu recipe is the epitome of flavor and simplicity, bringing together juicy chicken, creamy Swiss cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, this culinary delight is not just a feast for the eyes but also a sensational treat for your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe lies in how easy it is to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it to your family or hosting friends, this Cordon Bleu is sure to impress and satisfy anyone who takes a bite.
What sets this Cordon Bleu apart from traditional versions is the innovative twist of using cooked chicken slices in place of ham, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich flavors without including pork. The creamy Swiss cheese oozes perfectly from the tender chicken cutlets, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. As you savor this dish, you’ll also appreciate how the simple blend of ingredients transforms into an extraordinary experience. Let’s embark on this delightful cooking adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Cordon Bleu
- Delicious Comfort Food: This Cordon Bleu hits all the right notes of comfort while being distinctly flavorful.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can create this gourmet dish in no time!
- Suitability for All: By using cooked chicken slices instead of ham, you can cater to diverse dietary preferences.
- Meal Versatility: Pair it with various sides like salads or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and gooey cheese make for a dish that wows at any table.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for success. First, ensure your workspace is clean and organized to allow for a smooth cooking experience. Gather a large baking dish to accommodate your Cordon Bleu rolls and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Having all your ingredients measured and ready will streamline the preparation process.
You’ll want to have a meat mallet or rolling pin handy to pound your chicken cutlets to the right thickness, which ensures they roll easily. Additionally, prepare three shallow bowls: one for all-purpose flour, another for the beaten eggs, and the last for the panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder. With everything at your fingertips, you’ll set yourself up for tasty success!
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Cutlets: Thin, boneless, and perfect for rolling.
- 4 Cooked Chicken Slices: Juicy and flavorful alternative to traditional ham.
- 4 Swiss Cheese Slices: Melts into a creamy, cheesy center.
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour: Helps the coating stick.
- 2 Large Eggs: Beaten, to bind the breadcrumbs.
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds a light, crispy crust.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances flavor in the breadcrumb coating.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For greasing before baking.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows your Cordon Bleu to bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden crust. While the oven heats up, you can also prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Take your chicken cutlets and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until they’re about 1/4 inch thick. This technique not only tenderizes the meat but also makes it easier to roll. Once pounded, season both sides with salt and pepper to add depth of flavor.
Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients
Now it’s time to build your layers! Place one slice of cooked chicken on each cutlet, topping it with a slice of Swiss cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully during cooking, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to leave some space along the edges to make rolling easier.
Step 4: Prepare Your Dredging Stations
Set up your three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder. Follow a dredging procedure: first, coat the chicken roll in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs to ensure a generous coating.
Step 5: Roll and Secure
Carefully roll each chicken cutlet away from you, ensuring the filling stays intact. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the rolls and maintain their shape during baking. This step is crucial to keep all the cheesy goodness inside!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared rolls in your greased baking dish. Spray or brush the tops lightly with olive oil to promote browning. Then, bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and the cheese begins to ooze out – this heralds a deliciously cooked Cordon Bleu!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the Cordon Bleu from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the melted cheese to settle, ensuring that each slice reveals a perfect cheese pull. Serve alongside sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Variations
- Protein: Consider swapping out the chicken for turkey cutlets for a leaner option or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian spin.
- Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms inside the roll for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Customize the flavor profile with different spices in your breadcrumb coating, such as smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Cooking Notes
- Using chilled chicken slices makes rolling neater and easier.
- For an extra melty center, feel free to double the amount of Swiss cheese.
- Adding chopped herbs, like parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumb mixture infuses the Cordon Bleu with wonderful flavor.
- If you prefer a crunchier bottom, place the rolls on a wire rack above the baking dish to allow air circulation during baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy for a classic comfort food combination.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Consider a side of steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans for a vibrant and nutritious addition to the plate.
Tips
- Don’t skimp on seasoning your chicken; flavors meld beautifully during baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, depending on your taste preference.
- Allow leftover Cordon Bleu to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven for the best texture retention rather than using a microwave.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: About 30 grams per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 650 mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Can I freeze cooked Cordon Bleu?
Absolutely! Cooked Cordon Bleu can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure they are completely cooled, then wrap tightly before freezing.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, you can try Gruyère or even a mild cheddar for a different taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of Cordon Bleu?
While the traditional recipe features chicken, you can create a vegetarian version using portobello mushrooms or zucchini instead of meat, ensuring a similar rolling structure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this delightful Cordon Bleu recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a comforting meal that fits into any occasion. With its easy preparation and ability to impress your guests, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to make this dish your own. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments. What fillings or side dishes did you create for your Cordon Bleu? Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Irresistible Cordon Bleu Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cordon Bleu recipe is the epitome of flavor and simplicity, bringing together juicy chicken, creamy Swiss cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Cutlets: Thin, boneless, and perfect for rolling.
- 4 Cooked Chicken Slices: Juicy and flavorful alternative to traditional ham.
- 4 Swiss Cheese Slices: Melts into a creamy, cheesy center.
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour: Helps the coating stick.
- 2 Large Eggs: Beaten, to bind the breadcrumbs.
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds a light, crispy crust.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances flavor in the breadcrumb coating.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For greasing before baking.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows your Cordon Bleu to bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Take your chicken cutlets and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until they’re about 1/4 inch thick.
- Now it’s time to build your layers! Place one slice of cooked chicken on each cutlet, topping it with a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Set up your three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder.
- Carefully roll each chicken cutlet away from you, ensuring the filling stays intact. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the rolls.
- Place the prepared rolls in your greased baking dish. Spray or brush the tops lightly with olive oil to promote browning. Then, bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the Cordon Bleu from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
Using chilled chicken slices makes rolling neater and easier. For an extra melty center, feel free to double the amount of Swiss cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Protein: 30 g