Chicken cordon bleu is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions or even just a weeknight dinner. Traditionally, it is made by wrapping boneless chicken breast around ham and cheese, then breading and frying it. However, it is also possible to make a mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan.
By using a few simple techniques and ingredients, you can create a crispy and flavorful chicken cordon bleu in just a fraction of the time it takes to bake it in the oven.
In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan, so you can enjoy this classic dish in a quicker and easier way.
Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Delicious Dish
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese. This delightful combination is then breaded and fried to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both crispy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part of the chicken.
- Season the inside of each pocket with salt and pepper.
- Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each pocket.
- Press the edges of the chicken breast together to seal the pocket.
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, spread out the breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs. Make sure each breast is completely coated.
- In a frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Cook the breaded chicken breasts in the pan for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Chicken Cordon Bleu is best served hot and pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Serves |
---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings |
Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step-by-step Instructions
To cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: | Place a chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound it to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. |
Step 2: | Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides. |
Step 3: | Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the chicken breast. |
Step 4: | Roll up the chicken breast tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks to hold the roll together. |
Step 5: | In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. |
Step 6: | Add the chicken cordon bleu rolls to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. |
Step 7: | Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. |
Enjoy your homemade chicken cordon bleu!
Tips and Tricks for Frying Chicken Cordon Bleu
1. Pound the chicken breasts: Before frying, it’s important to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents it from drying out.
2. Use high heat: When frying chicken cordon bleu, it’s best to use high heat to achieve a crispy and golden brown crust. This will also help seal in the juices and keep the chicken moist.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip the pounded chicken breasts in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs. This triple coating will provide a delicious and crispy texture.
4. Preheat the pan: It’s important to preheat the frying pan before adding the chicken. This will help prevent sticking and ensure a nice sear on the outside of the chicken.
5. Use oil with a high smoke point: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying. This will prevent the oil from burning and smoking, resulting in a clean and flavorful chicken cordon bleu.
6. Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan by cooking the chicken in batches. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken cordon bleu.
7. Flip gently: When flipping the chicken in the pan, use tongs or a spatula to gently turn it over. Avoid piercing the chicken with a fork, as this can release its juices and make it dry.
8. Drain excess oil: After frying the chicken cordon bleu, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help remove any greasiness and give the dish a lighter texture.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to fry delicious chicken cordon bleu that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Cordon Bleu can be served with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu with creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food combination. The rich and velvety texture of the potatoes complements the crispy exterior and flavorful filling of the chicken dish.
2. Steamed Vegetables
Balance the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu with a side of steamed vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, and green beans are popular choices, but feel free to use your favorite vegetables. They will add a burst of color and freshness to your plate.
3. Salad
Create a well-rounded meal by serving Chicken Cordon Bleu with a refreshing salad. A simple green salad with mixed lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with vinaigrette or ranch dressing can be a great complement to the flavors of the chicken dish.
4. Rice Pilaf
For a more substantial side, serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu with rice pilaf. The fluffy and aromatic rice pairs well with the savory chicken and cheese filling. You can garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different side dishes and accompaniments to find your perfect combination. Don’t forget to garnish your plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance!
Enjoy Your Homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu!
Now that you have successfully cooked your chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan, it’s time to enjoy the delicious results! Follow these final steps to make the most of your homemade dish:
- Transfer the chicken cordon bleu to a serving plate.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
- Serve hot and enjoy the crispy exterior and flavorful, gooey interior.
You can serve your chicken cordon bleu with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.
Don’t forget to share your delicious creation with your loved ones! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekday dinner, your homemade chicken cordon bleu is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Bon appétit!
Q&A
What is chicken cordon bleu?
Chicken cordon bleu is a popular dish made with chicken breasts that are filled with ham and cheese, then breaded and cooked until golden and crispy.
What ingredients do I need to make chicken cordon bleu?
To make chicken cordon bleu, you will need chicken breasts, deli ham, Swiss cheese, all-purpose flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and oil for frying.
Can I cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan?
Yes, you can cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan. It may not be as crispy as when it’s deep-fried, but it will still be delicious. Just make sure to cook it on medium heat and flip it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
What side dishes go well with chicken cordon bleu?
There are many side dishes that pair well with chicken cordon bleu. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, salad, or garlic bread.
How long does it take to cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan?
The cooking time for chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. On average, it takes about 10-12 minutes per side to cook the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through.
Can I cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan?
Yes, you can definitely cook chicken cordon bleu in a frying pan. It is a quick and convenient way to make this delicious dish.