Chicken cordon bleu

Chicken Breast Cordon Bleu

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will prepare a delicious dish loved by many: Chicken Breast Cordon Bleu. This simple yet elegant recipe will bring a burst of flavor to your table. Cordon Bleu is a dish that has gained popularity worldwide due to its combination of juicy meat, savory filling, and crispy crust. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will delight everyone's taste buds.

Ingredients you will need:

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 100 g cheese (choose a cheese that melts well, such as Emmental or Gouda)
- 8 slices of ham
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 150 g)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Pickled cucumbers and peppers, for serving

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Start by cleaning the chicken breast of skin and rinsing it under cold running water. Then, with a sharp knife, cut the breast into thin strips, about 1 cm thick. Try to get uniform strips so they cook evenly. After cutting the strips, season them with salt and pepper.

2. Filling the strips: Place a slice of ham on each chicken strip. In the center, add a piece of cheese. Make sure the cheese slice is placed at one end of the roll, so it can be rolled up easily. Tightly roll the chicken strip, ensuring the filling stays inside.

3. Preparing the egg mixture: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt, then add the 3 tablespoons of flour. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture that will help the breadcrumbs stick to the rolls.

4. Coating with breadcrumbs: In a deep plate, prepare the breadcrumbs. Take each filled roll and first dip it in the egg-flour mixture, then in the breadcrumbs. Make sure the roll is completely covered with breadcrumbs, especially at the ends, to prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.

5. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil until it is well heated. Check the temperature by adding a crumb of breadcrumbs: if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Carefully place the rolls in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

6. Draining excess oil: Once the rolls are fried, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving: Cordon Bleu is served hot, alongside pickled cucumbers and peppers. These pickles add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the rich taste of the rolls. It can also be accompanied by a green salad or fried potatoes for a complete meal.

Practical tip: If you want to add an extra note of flavor, try using smoked cheese or adding spices like sweet paprika or garlic powder to the egg mixture.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and the filling of cheese and ham adds a supply of calcium and healthy fats. This dish can be a good option for a balanced meal, but it is important to consume it in moderation, due to the oil and breadcrumb content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.
2. How can I make Cordon Bleu healthier? Try baking the rolls in the oven instead of frying them, at a temperature of 200°C for 25-30 minutes.
3. Can the un-fried rolls be frozen? Yes, you can freeze them after coating them in breadcrumbs. Make sure they are well packaged to avoid freezer burn.

This Chicken Breast Cordon Bleu is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and indulgence. Feel free to experiment with various fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach, to add a personal touch to this classic dish.

So, let your creativity flow and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!