Are you craving a comforting yet elegant meal? Chicken Cordon Bleu perfectly fits the bill! This classic dish, with its tender chicken breast wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, is a crowd-pleaser. But let's take it up a notch! We'll not only guide you through making the perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu, but also explore a range of delicious side dishes to complete your culinary masterpiece. This post is packed with easy recipes, healthy meal options, and quick dinner ideas for homemade cooking, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to discover some of the best recipes out there!
The Star of the Show: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavor, delivering that satisfying Chicken Cordon Bleu experience without unnecessary fuss.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyere)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through. Lightly pound each breast to even thickness.
- Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Place a slice of ham and two slices of cheese on each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling to enclose it.
- Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Melt the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Side Dish Sensations: Perfect Pairings for your Chicken Cordon Bleu
Now for the fun part: selecting the ideal accompaniments to complement your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu. These side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
1. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic: A Healthy & Flavorful Choice
This easy recipe provides a vibrant and healthy counterpoint to the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, while lemon and garlic add a burst of fresh flavor.
- Ingredients: 1 pound asparagus, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 lemon (juiced and zested), salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
2. Creamy Parmesan Risotto: A Rich and Decadent Option
For a truly luxurious meal, a creamy Parmesan risotto is an excellent choice. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor provide a comforting contrast to the crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- Ingredients: (This requires a more detailed risotto recipe which you can readily find online, searching for "easy parmesan risotto recipe.")
- Instructions: Follow your chosen easy parmesan risotto recipe.
3. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A Light and Refreshing Choice
A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu. It’s a quick and easy option that adds a healthy touch to your meal.
- Ingredients: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, your favorite vinaigrette dressing.
- Instructions: Combine the greens, tomatoes, and cucumber. Toss with your favorite vinaigrette just before serving.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- For extra crispy chicken: Use panko bread crumbs for a lighter, crispier crust.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs for a little heat.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or Fontina.
- Herb additions: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken before breading for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use a nutrition calculator for more precise details. Expect a moderate calorie count, with a good source of protein from the chicken and healthy fats depending on your sides.
We hope you enjoy this classic dish elevated with some delightful side dishes! Remember to adjust the recipes to your taste and dietary needs. Happy cooking!