Chicken Cordon Bleu with Mushroom Sauce

Cordon Bleu with Mushroom Sauce - An Explosion of Flavors and Textures

Cordon bleu is a classic dish that will instantly transport you to the world of culinary delights. This recipe for cordon bleu with mushroom sauce is perfect for an elegant dinner but can also be cooked for a family meal. With a savory combination of chicken breast, melted cheese, bell pepper, and sausage, this dish will delight your senses. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
For Cordon Bleu:
- 1 chicken breast (about 300-350 g)
- 1 bell pepper (you can choose between red, green, or yellow for added color)
- 1/2 sausage (or other preferred deli meat)
- 2 slices of melted cheese (Emmental or mozzarella are excellent options)
- 1 egg
- Breadcrumbs (about 100 g)
- Spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika)
- Oil for frying (suggestion: sunflower oil or olive oil)

For the mushroom sauce:
- 200 g mushrooms (champignon or oyster)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably the same type used for the cordon bleu)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 200 ml cream (cooking cream)
- Spices (salt, pepper, herbs)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well and drying it with a paper towel. Then, cut it in half lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, to create an opening for stuffing. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breast until it reaches an even thickness of about 1 cm.

2. Stuffing the chicken: Season each piece of chicken breast with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little sweet paprika for extra color and flavor. Place a slice of melted cheese, some strips of bell pepper, and half of the sausage on each piece. Carefully roll each piece and secure it well with toothpicks to prevent it from unfolding during cooking.

3. Preparing for frying: Beat the egg in a small bowl, adding a pinch of salt. In another bowl, prepare the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken roll in the beaten egg, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.

4. Frying: In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of breadcrumbs; if it sizzles, it’s ready. Fry the chicken rolls on all sides until golden and crispy (about 4-5 minutes on each side). Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

5. Preparing the mushroom sauce: In the same skillet, add a little oil if necessary and sauté the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper until soft. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped garlic, continuing to sauté until the mushrooms are lightly browned.

6. Finishing the sauce: Once the mushrooms are ready, add the cream and season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

7. Serving: On a platter, arrange the cordon bleu rolls and pour the mushroom sauce over them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh and appetizing look. You can serve this dish alongside a crispy green salad or mashed potatoes.

Practical tips:
- Ingredient variations: You can replace the sausage with ham or salami, and the melted cheese with feta cheese for a distinct flavor.
- Alternative method: If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the rolls instead of frying them. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes.
- Choosing mushrooms: Champignon mushrooms are the most commonly used, but you can also experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
- Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building muscles and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and contribute to heart health, while cream provides a source of calcium and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I make cordon bleu without meat? Absolutely! You can use slices of eggplant or zucchini, stuffed with cheese and vegetables.
- How can I store the mushroom sauce? The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be easily reheated before serving.

This recipe for cordon bleu with mushroom sauce will not only impress your guests but will also bring a touch of comfort to your days. Enjoy the combination of ingredients and don’t hesitate to share this delicacy with your loved ones!