Savor the flavor: master the art of cooking raley’s chicken cordon bleu at home

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will unveil the culinary secrets behind crafting this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• 1 package (16 ounces) Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Equipment: Your Culinary Toolkit

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan
• Tongs or spatula

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the package and pat it dry with paper towels.
• In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
• In another shallow bowl, place the bread crumbs.

Step 2: Dredging the Chicken

• Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
• Next, dip the chicken into the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil.
• Fry for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the fried chicken pieces to a baking dish.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Crafting the Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth.
• Gradually add 1 cup of milk, stirring constantly.
• Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Assembling the Cordon Bleu

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each chicken piece.
• Top with a slice of ham.
• Pour the white sauce over the chicken.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

• Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

The Art of Presentation: A Culinary Canvas

• Arrange the chicken cordon bleu on a serving platter.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use other types of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs.

Q: How do I check if the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Reheat it gently before using.

Q: What are some variations to the recipe?
A: You can add sliced mushrooms or onions to the sauce, or use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken cordon bleu?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken cordon bleu for up to 3 months. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.