Easy Cordon Bleu Recipe: A Simple Guide to a Classic Dish
The classic Cordon Bleu is a dish that often sounds intimidating, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home! This recipe breaks down the process into simple steps, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish made with ease.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of cooked ham (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyere, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
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For Serving (Optional):
- Salad
- Roasted vegetables
- French fries
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked Cordon Bleu:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
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Layer the ingredients: Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on top of each flattened chicken breast.
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Roll and secure: Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly, tucking in the sides to prevent the filling from escaping. You can use toothpicks to secure the rolls if needed.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Flour: Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Egg wash: Dip each floured roll into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat each roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Pan-fry: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). You can also bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove any toothpicks. Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Cordon Bleu:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ham and cheese, the better your Cordon Bleu will taste.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If pan-frying, cook the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even browning.
- Get creative with fillings: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or mozzarella, or add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
This easy Cordon Bleu recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Remember to share your culinary creations with #EasyCordonBleu.
