Unlock the secret: master chef’s guide to cooking chicken cordon bleu from your grocery store

If you’re craving the mouthwatering flavors of chicken cordon bleu but don’t have the time or ingredients to make it from scratch, fear not! This comprehensive guide will show you how to cook a delectable chicken cordon bleu from the comfort of your own kitchen using ingredients readily available at your local grocery store.

Ingredients

To create this classic dish, you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced ham
• 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Preparation

1. Prepare the chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

3. Assemble the cordon bleu: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Make a deep incision into the side of each breast, creating a pocket.

4. Fill the pocket: Stuff the pockets with the ham and cheese.

5. Bread the cordon bleu: In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip the stuffed chicken breasts into the egg mixture, then roll them in the bread crumbs.

6. Fry the cordon bleu: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the cordon bleu into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Serve and enjoy: Remove the cordon bleu from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success

• Use thin chicken breasts: This will ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken from becoming dry.
• Don’t overfill the pockets: Too much filling can cause the cordon bleu to burst.
• Use a meat thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let it rest: Allow the cordon bleu to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Variations

• Sauce it up: Serve your cordon bleu with a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy lemon-herb sauce.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika into the bread crumb mixture for a bit of heat.
• Try different fillings: Experiment with different fillings, such as bacon, spinach, or artichoke hearts.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy cordon bleu.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and onions, adds a healthy and colorful side.
• Green salad: A light and refreshing green salad balances the richness of the cordon bleu.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. What kind of bread crumbs should I use?

Plain bread crumbs or seasoned bread crumbs will both work well.

3. Can I bake the cordon bleu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the cordon bleu at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

4. How do I store leftover cordon bleu?

Store leftover cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or microwave before serving.

5. Can I make cordon bleu ahead of time?

You can assemble the cordon bleu ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bread and fry the cordon bleu just before serving.