Chicken to the power of infinity.
Mathematically speaking, simple addition doesn’t accurately describe what happens when you combine the ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu. True, it’s based on a technique that rolls up chicken, ham, cheese, condiments and herbs or spices. But when everything comes together, the resulting flavor is exponentially greater than any of the original ingredients. And isn’t that yet another reason to love this go-to lean protein? Just Bare Chicken is not only delicious and nutritious. It’s a versatile and creative starting point for dinner tonight.
Ready, set, stuff.
When your ingredients are ready, it’s decision time. One option for combining great tasting ingredients with chicken breasts is to slice horizontally into the thickest part of the meat and make a pocket. Once the pocket is formed (try not to cut through the meat completely), stuff the ingredients inside and sauté the breasts on the stovetop or roast in the oven. Another option, however, is the technique you’ll use for Millennial Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Ready to roll?
There are several advantages to flattening chicken breasts. For starters, meat of equal thickness cooks evenly. But if you go a little farther, carefully using a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet, you can get the chicken to the point where it’s thin enough to wrap up other ingredients. Once you’ve rolled everything together, you can use a toothpick or kitchen twine for more control while the Millennial Chicken Cordon Bleu is cooking. Dipping each roll in an egg wash is great way to add seasoned bread crumbs or panko for a crispy contrast to the melted cheese on the inside.
Adding your touch to the tradition.
Chicken Cordon Bleu originated in America in 1950s and 1960s, but it traces its heritage to roulades or rolled meat dishes found in Europe such as Chicken Kiev. There’s no definitive way to make it. Create you own favorite new combinations by substituting prosciutto, serrano or bacon for deli ham. Swiss cheese is always a popular choice, but Gruyere or Parmesan are delicious as well. And for an additional flavor boost, try Chicken Cordon Bleu with finely chopped mushrooms or shallots. Whatever you include, this is one recipe that locks in the flavor every time.