Simplify culinary elegance: discover the easiest way to make chicken cordon bleu with chicken tenderloins

Indulge in the culinary masterpiece of chicken cordon bleu, now made accessible with the tender and juicy goodness of chicken tenderloins. This step-by-step guide will empower you to create this classic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen, ensuring a delectable experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenderloins:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup grated ham
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenderloins

Season the chicken tenderloins generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Create the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the grated Swiss cheese, ham, and onion. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cordon Bleu

Place a chicken tenderloin on a flat surface and use a sharp knife to make a horizontal incision along the length of the tenderloin, creating a pocket. Stuff the filling into the pocket, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 4: Coat the Cordon Bleu

• Dredge in Flour: Dip the assembled cordon bleu into the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Dip in Eggs: Transfer the flour-coated cordon bleu to the beaten eggs and allow it to soak for a few seconds.
• Roll in Breadcrumbs: Finally, roll the cordon bleu in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere.

Step 5: Pan-Fry

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cordon bleus in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cordon bleus from the skillet and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

• Tenderize the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken tenderloins slightly before making the incision. This will help tenderize the meat and make it easier to stuff.
• Keep the Filling Cold: Refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes before stuffing it into the chicken tenderloins. This will help prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, providing a delicious crunch to the cordon bleu.
• Cook to Perfection: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations:

• Add Dijon Mustard: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of the chicken tenderloin before adding the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
• Use Other Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère, to create unique variations of chicken cordon bleu.
• Bake Instead of Pan-Fry: If desired, you can bake the cordon bleus in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Wrapping It Up: A Culinary Masterpiece

Creating chicken cordon bleu with chicken tenderloins is a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. By following these simple steps and incorporating the tips and variations provided, you can master this classic dish and enjoy a delectable meal that celebrates the flavors of Swiss cheese, ham, and tender chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, you will need to pound them thin before making the incision to create the pocket for the filling.

2. What sides go well with chicken cordon bleu?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads are all excellent side dishes for chicken cordon bleu.

3. How do I store leftover chicken cordon bleu?

Store leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.