crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

Crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with layers of cheese and chicken ham, all coated in a crunchy panko crust. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, showcasing a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Its creamy Dijon cheese sauce elevates the dish, making it a comforting favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is suitable for cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of Swiss cheese and chicken ham creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with a side salad, vegetables, or over pasta for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The rolled chicken looks stunning on a plate, perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of fried chicken combined with creamy sauce—a true comfort food experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Shallow dishes for dredging
• Tall-sided pan for frying
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in the chicken breasts, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Tall-sided pan for frying: Prevents oil splatter while providing enough depth for even frying of the rolls.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Rolls

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• 225 g chicken ham, thinly sliced
• Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying

For Breading and Frying

• 125 g all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 100 g panko bread crumbs

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 480 mL milk
• 60 g Dijon mustard
• 100 g shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Evenly coat the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure all surfaces are well seasoned.
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even thickness of approximately 1 cm using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

1. Remove the top sheet of plastic wrap from one chicken breast.
2. Layer with 2 slices of Swiss cheese followed by 2 slices of chicken ham. Add another layer of Swiss cheese and chicken ham.
3. Carefully roll the chicken tightly using the plastic wrap to form a uniform log.
4. Wrap each prepared roll tightly in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Tie securely and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Heat Oil

1. In a tall-sided pan, heat approximately 5 cm of peanut oil to about 170°C in preparation for deep frying.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

1. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko bread crumbs.
2. Dredge each chilled roll in flour first, then dip into beaten egg, followed by coating it evenly with panko bread crumbs.

Step 5: Fry the Rolls

1. Carefully fry each breaded roll in hot oil for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. If necessary, transfer them to a baking tray with a wire rack and finish baking in an oven at 170°C until cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 75°C).

Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until softened.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; simmer until thickened.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Stir in Dijon mustard and shredded Parmesan cheese into the sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Continuously stir until melted and smooth; remove from heat.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice the cooked rolls into portions and arrange them on serving plates.
2. Generously drizzle warm Dijon sauce over each portion before serving.

Enjoy your delicious crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu!

How to Serve crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

Crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu is an elegant dish that pairs perfectly with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or preparing a family meal, serving this dish attractively can elevate the dining experience.

Elegant Plating

• Arrange sliced chicken rolls on a large platter for a stunning presentation.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Accompanying Sauce

• Serve extra warm Dijon cheese sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
• A drizzle over the chicken adds flavor and visual appeal.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Consider adding nuts or fruits for added texture and flavor.

Grains

• Serve with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Flavored options like lemon herb rice can complement the dish nicely.

Roasted Vegetables

• Include seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots and asparagus, for a nutritious side.
• Season them lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

Bread

• Offer warm crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce.
• This adds a comforting element to your meal.

How to Perfect crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

Making crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu at home can be straightforward if you follow some essential tips. These will help ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use quality ingredients: Selecting fresh chicken and high-quality cheese will enhance flavor significantly.
• Pound evenly: Ensure that you pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Chill before frying: Chilling the rolled chicken helps maintain its shape and ensures it stays juicy during frying.
• Monitor oil temperature: Use a thermometer to check oil temperature; too hot can burn the coating, too cool can result in greasy rolls.
• Double-check doneness: Always confirm that the internal temperature reaches 75°C for safe consumption.
• Rest before slicing: Let the cooked rolls rest briefly before slicing; this helps retain moisture inside.

Best Side Dishes for crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

Complementing your crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic make for an indulgent pairing that balances out the crispiness of the chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tanginess from the dressing, enhancing your dining experience.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and pair beautifully with savory flavors in the chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a healthy grain option alongside your main dish.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and brightness, making it a perfect contrast to rich flavors of the chicken.
7. Grilled Zucchini: Charred zucchini slices not only taste amazing but also provide additional nutrients to your meal.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the creamy sauce beautifully while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu, it’s easy to make some common errors that could affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season every layer of your dish for maximum taste.

• Overfilling the chicken rolls: Adding too much filling can cause the rolls to burst during cooking. Use a moderate amount of cheese and chicken ham for a perfect balance.

• Not chilling before frying: If you fry the chicken rolls right after assembling, they may fall apart. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.

• Using too low oil temperature: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough can lead to greasy results instead of crispy ones. Ensure your oil reaches 170°C before adding the rolls.

• Neglecting internal temperature checks: Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can result in undercooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 75°C.

• Rushing the sauce preparation: A rushed sauce may not have time to thicken or develop flavor. Take your time whisking and simmering for a smooth, rich Dijon sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking often to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu:

Can I make crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu in advance?

You can prepare and chill the assembled rolls in advance and fry them when ready to serve. This saves time on busy days.

What can I use as a substitute for Swiss cheese?

For variations, try using mozzarella or provolone cheese instead of Swiss cheese for different flavors while still achieving creaminess.

How do I know when my crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C for safe consumption.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake these rolls at 180°C for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown if you prefer a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

Crispy creamy chicken cordon bleu is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices or swapping out cheeses based on your preference. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!