Cordon bleu

Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe: A Quick and Crispy Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the rich flavors of ham and cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that will impress even the most discerning guests. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of refinement to their everyday meals.

A Bit of History
Cordon Bleu originates from European culinary traditions, initially inspired by recipes involving stuffed and baked meats. The name "Cordon Bleu" translates to "blue ribbon," symbolizing excellence in cooking. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, becoming a popular dish worldwide, adapted to local ingredients and culinary preferences.

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 4 slices of ham (preferably Prague ham or jambon)
- 4 slices of cheese (Emmental or Gouda)
- 2 eggs
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 200 g)
- Szechuan pepper or black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Oil for frying

Useful Tips about Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Choose a fresh chicken breast without skin and with a uniform appearance. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a simpler preparation.
- Cheese and ham: Choose a quality cheese that melts well and a ham with a rich flavor. Combining a saltier cheese with a sweeter ham can add an interesting contrast of flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: If you want a crunchier crust, you can use panko breadcrumbs, which are airier than regular breadcrumbs.

A little trick: If you like your food to be more flavorful, add some dried herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs, such as oregano or basil.

Step by Step: Preparing Cordon Bleu

1. Preparing the chicken breast:
Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin slices. It is essential that the slices are as uniform as possible for even cooking. If you have difficulty, you can use a meat mallet to flatten them, covering the meat with plastic wrap to prevent splattering.

2. Assembling:
On each slice of chicken, sprinkle salt and pepper, then alternately place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. If you love cheese, feel free to add more slices. Cover with another slice of chicken and secure everything with toothpicks, making sure to keep your filling inside.

3. Dipping in egg and breadcrumbs:
Beat the two eggs in a deep bowl. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dipping the chicken packets first in egg and then in breadcrumbs is essential for achieving a perfect crust. If you want a thicker crust, you can repeat this step.

4. Frying:
In a deep pan, add enough oil for frying (about 1-2 cm high). Heat the oil over medium heat. You can check if the oil is hot by tossing a small piece of breadcrumb – if it sizzles, it's time to add the chicken packets. Fry the packets on each side for 5-7 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy.

5. Finalizing:
Once the packets are fried, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Carefully remove the toothpicks and serve them hot.

Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or buttery mashed potatoes. You can also add a mustard sauce or a spicy tomato salsa for an extra flavor boost. A bottle of white wine or a pale beer will perfectly complement the meal.

Variations:
- Vegan: You can replace the chicken breast with tofu or seitan fillets, and the ham with a similar vegan product. The cheese can be replaced with a vegan cheese substitute.
- Different fillings: Instead of ham and cheese, you can experiment with feta cheese and spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms and mozzarella.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How well should the chicken be cooked? Ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C to be safe for consumption.
- Can I prepare Cordon Bleu in advance? Yes, you can assemble the chicken packets a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator, frying them just before serving.
- How many calories does Chicken Cordon Bleu have? A serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu has about 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used and their quantities.

Nutritional Benefits:
Chicken Cordon Bleu provides an excellent source of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the oil used for frying (if used in moderation), and calcium from the cheese. Additionally, it is a recipe that can be adapted according to dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

I hope this Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe inspires you to try it and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal! Enjoy your meal!